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In accordance with RC. 3501.05(N)(1), I am forwarding to you the written report and
recommendation prepared by Attorney Rebecca M. Gerson, whom I appointed to investigate
allegations that Paul Siegfried, acting in his capacity as a McDonald's franchisee, violated RC.
3599.05 in connection with the November 2,2010 federal and state elections on the election
ballot in Stark County, Ohio.
On October 28, 2010, I became aware of reports that Mr. Siegfried, a McDonald's franchisee in
Ohio's 16th Congressional District, had enclosed 'with his employees' paychecks correspondence
on McDonald's stationery suggesting that they support three specific candidates - one for state
office and the other two for federal legislative office - in the November 2, 2010 general election.
The correspondence further contained one or more statements that the employees would not
continue to receive raises and benefits unless the three candidates were elected.
of COrl'upt pral::tIC(~S,
Attorney General Richard Cordray Page 20f2
Stark County Prosecuting Attorney John D. Ferrero
l)e,cernb(~r30, 2010
Ms. Gerson also conferred with County Prosecuting Attorney John D. Ferrero and Canton
Law Director Joseph Martuccio to discuss the particulars the investigation and jurisdictional
issues. Neither the county prosecutor nor the law director's office had begun a formal
investigation. Prosecuting Attorney Ferrero and Law Director Martuccio agreed to work with
Ms. Gerson and await my decision as to what action should be taken. Ms. Gerson also met \Nith
Mr. Siegfried and his legal counsel, Randy Snow.
After completing investigation, Ms. Gerson prepared a written report (including exhibits)
and recommendations. Ms. Gerson determined that Mr. Siegfried's action constituted a
violation of R.C. 3599.05. She has recommended that Mr. Siegfried be prosecuted. She has
further recommended that Mr. Siegfried be provided the opportunity to enter a plea no
contest/guilty to a single violation of R.C. 3599.05 \vith the stipulation that he pay the requisite
maximum fine of $1000.00. I am in agreement \\rith her recommendations and request that you
determine between yourselves how you \\1sh for this matter to proceed to prosecution.
Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. If you have any questions
concerning this matter, please feel free to contact Ms. Gerson or my General Counsel, Brian E.
Shinn; their contact information is pr0\1ded below:
Sincerely,
Jennifer Brunner
cc: