Mistrial in FirstEnergy Trial After Jury Deadlock
Key Questions
What caused the mistrial in the FirstEnergy executives' trial?
The Akron jury deadlocked 10-2 and 8-4 on some counts against former FirstEnergy executives Michael Dowling and Thomas Jones after nine days of deliberations starting March 18. Judge Dan Hawkins Ross declared a mistrial following polling of the jurors. He denied defense motions for acquittals on April 1.
What were the jury's vote splits in the FirstEnergy bribery case?
The jury was deadlocked 10-2 on some counts and 8-4 on others. Forewoman Jackie Steward later shared in a 2026 recap that she wanted to convict on nearly all counts but unresolved questions persisted. Judge Ross's 14 limits blocked some juror inquiries, including about Randazzo.
What is the current status of the retrial for Jones and Dowling?
A pretrial Zoom hearing was scheduled for April 8 to discuss retrial plans. Despite Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost's commitment to pursuing justice, commended by State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan, there are no updates on a retrial date. Defense motions are ongoing.
What did the jury forewoman say about the FirstEnergy trial?
Forewoman Jackie Steward stated she wanted to convict the executives on nearly all counts but had burning questions due to withheld information. Some inquiries were blocked by Judge Ross's restrictions. This was highlighted in a 2026 recap of the deliberations.
Why did the defense seek acquittals and what was the judge's ruling?
The defense moved for acquittals after the jury deadlock, arguing the votes showed insufficient evidence. Judge Ross denied the motions on April 1, paving the way for potential retrial discussions. Analysis points to jury disagreements as a key factor in the mistrial.
Akron jury deadlocked 10-2/8-4 on some counts vs. Jones/Dowling after 9 days (since March 18); Judge Ross declared mistrial post-polling, denied acquittals April 1, pretrial Zoom April 8 for retrial. Recent 2026 recap with forewoman Jackie Steward quotes on splits, Randazzo curiosity blocked by Ross's 14 limits; no retrial updates despite Yost commitment, defense motions.