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Police State Part I: “Fusion Centers” A Solution or a New Problem for National Security and Civil Liberties
by Marion-Watch
May 22, 2025
Ever heard of "fusion centers"? These roughly 80 state-run hubs, created post-9/11, are meant to help law enforcement share intelligence. But significant concerns exist regarding their operational secrecy, lack of independent oversight, and "mission creep" into collecting data on everyday activities, not just terrorism. This becomes more concerning with technology like Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs)—such as Flock Safety cameras increasingly common in communities like ours and across the nation. These systems capture vast amounts of data on vehicle movements, mostly of innocent people, which can then be fed into fusion center databases.
Beyond Mercy: Politically Motivated Attacks, Ed Martin, the “Weaponization” Narrative, and the Future of Presidential Pardons
by Marion-Watch
May 20, 2025
The appointment of Ed Martin as U.S. Pardon Attorney under President Trump has ignited a firestorm around presidential clemency. Martin's immediate declaration to review all pardons issued by former President Biden for "lawful authorization" signals a radical departure from the office's traditional role. This unprecedented move, spearheaded by Martin as head of a new "Weaponization Working Group," clashes with the widely accepted understanding of pardons as final acts, constitutionally protected from reversal. Legal scholars note the absence of any mechanism for a subsequent administration to revoke a delivered pardon. Martin's proposed review, therefore, appears to prioritize political scrutiny over established legal precedent, potentially aiming to delegitimize pardons deemed politically unfavorable. Even though Martin himself has called the pardon power "plenary," the ambiguous framing of "unlawful authorization" suggests a politically motivated agenda rather than a pursuit of established legal recourse. This investigation will delve into Martin's profile, the history of presidential pardons, Biden's record, and the far-reaching legal and political consequences of this review, especially within the context of the administration's "weaponization" narrative.
Marion County Justice Under Fire: VanBibber’s New Ethics Storm & Prosecutor’s Endorsement Raise Systemic Alarms
by Marion-Watch
May 18, 2025
Local attorney Jack Herchel VanBibber is confronting a new wave of serious misconduct allegations, detailed in a "First Amended Complaint" filed on May 15, 2025, by the Supreme Court of Ohio's Disciplinary Counsel. This follows a May 7, 2024, two-year stayed suspension for previous infractions. The fresh accusations include profound client neglect, making false statements to courts and investigators, engaging in improper sexual conduct, and repeated failure to cooperate with disciplinary authorities. Alarmingly, some alleged new misconduct reportedly began just days after his June 2023 disciplinary hearing for prior issues. The complaint also highlights concerns from the Ohio Lawyers Assistance Program regarding VanBibber's candor about substance use. These developments cast a shadow over previous community support, including a 2023 letter from Marion County Prosecutor Raymond Grogan. The new allegations, if substantiated, could trigger VanBibber's current stayed suspension or lead to more severe sanctions, including disbarment, further intensifying scrutiny of Marion County's legal system.
Marion Ethics in Question: Attorney VanBibber Faces Barrage of Charges—Falsehoods, Sexual Misconduct, and Legal Neglect Detailed
by Marion-Watch
May 17, 2025
Local attorney Jack Herchel VanBibber is facing severe misconduct allegations from the Disciplinary Counsel of the Supreme Court of Ohio. A "First Amended Complaint and Certificate," filed May 15, 2025, details numerous alleged professional failings, including neglect of client duties, false statements to courts and investigators, improper sexual conduct, and repeated failure to cooperate with disciplinary authorities. These charges follow a previous two-year stayed suspension issued in May 2024 for prior misconduct. The new complaint suggests some alleged offenses began shortly after his initial disciplinary hearing, raising questions about his commitment to reform. The Board of Professional Conduct will review the charges, which could have career-ending consequences for VanBibber's ability to practice law.
The Unaccounted: Children Missing from State and Federal Care in the United States
by Marion-Watch
May 14, 2025
The state of Ohio serves as a relevant example of the types of systemic issues within CPS that can contribute to child instability and, potentially, disappearance from care. Ohio's child welfare system is administered by county-level Public Children Services Agencies (PCSAs). These agencies are responsible for investigating reports of abuse and neglect, implementing safety and case plans, and making "reasonable efforts" to prevent removal or reunify families. Mandated reporters are required to report suspicions of child maltreatment, and PCSAs utilize a differential response system to address these reports. Despite this framework, legal challenges and oversight reports in Ohio point to several areas of concern...
Epstein’s Shadow Kingdom: Were World Leaders and Global Elites Complicit in a Decade of Horror?
by Marion-Watch
May 10, 2025
Years after his death, the shadow of Jeffrey Epstein's predatory network persists, fueled by recent revelations. Attorney General Pamela Bondi's claim that the FBI is reviewing "tens of thousands of videos of Epstein with children or child porn" involving "hundreds of victims" dramatically raises the stakes. This potential trove of evidence hints at an industrial scale of exploitation, placing immense pressure on the FBI for transparent and diligent review. The ongoing saga highlights the deep-seated challenges of uncovering the full truth and achieving accountability for a criminal enterprise enabled by wealth and power.
Ballots & Backrooms: Charges, Accusations Fly in Rural Texas
by Marion-Watch
May 9, 2025
In early May 2025, Frio County, Texas, became central to the national election integrity debate following felony indictments against six individuals, including the county judge, city council members, a school trustee, and the former elections administrator. Brought by Attorney General Ken Paxton's office after a multi-year investigation, the charges primarily allege illegal "vote harvesting," a third-degree felony under Texas law. Those indicted include Frio County Judge Rochelle Lozano Camacho, Pearsall City Council members Ramiro Trevino and Racheal Garza, Pearsall ISD Trustee Adriann Ramirez, former Elections Administrator Carlos Segura (also charged with tampering with evidence), and campaign worker Rosa Rodriguez. This case unfolds within a polarized national climate where voter fraud concerns clash with voter suppression fears, particularly under Texas's controversial 2021 election law, Senate Bill 1. Latino civil rights groups have criticized the investigation as politically motivated voter suppression. The involvement of a Republican Attorney General pursuing charges against primarily Democratic or nonpartisan officials in a predominantly Hispanic county with recent Republican gains highlights the significant political dimensions of this case.
The Watchdog That Watched It Burn: Ignored Warnings, Policy Failures, and the Government’s Hand in the Opioid Catastrophe
by Marion-Watch
May 8, 2025
Amidst an unrelenting overdose crisis, Congress passed the HALT Fentanyl Act, permanently classifying fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I drugs and mandating stringent minimum sentences. Despite bipartisan support, this move sparked profound concerns. Critics argue its "class-wide scheduling" is overly broad and scientifically unsound, potentially criminalizing harmless or beneficial substances without individual assessment. The approach prioritizes expedited criminalization over careful scientific evaluation, potentially stifling vital research. This legislation highlights the ongoing tension between addressing drug crises as public health emergencies versus primarily criminal justice issues, risking an illusion of action over effective, multifaceted solutions.
Operation Restore Justice: Unveiling the Shadows and the Enduring Fight Against Child Sex Trafficking
by Marion-Watch
May 7, 2025
Operation Restore Justice resulted in significant outcomes: the arrests of 205 individuals alleged to be child sexual abuse offenders and the rescue of 115 children. Those arrested faced charges for a range of crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. Examples highlighted in the announcement included the arrest of a state trooper and Army Reservist in Minneapolis for allegedly producing CSAM while in uniform, an illegal alien in Norfolk, VA, accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex, and a former Metropolitan Police Department officer in Washington, D.C., arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims. These examples underscore the diverse profiles of offenders and the varied contexts in which these crimes occur.
Taking Back America: Record Fentanyl Seizure Dismantles Major Trafficking Ring with Alleged Sinaloa Cartel Links
by Marion-Watch
May 7, 2025
In a meticulously coordinated series of actions culminating in early May 2025, federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement agencies across five western states dismantled what authorities have described as one of the largest and most dangerous drug trafficking organizations (DTOs) in United States history. The operation, a significant component of the Department of Justice's (DOJ) broader "Operation Take Back America" initiative, resulted in sixteen arrests announced on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, with three additional key individuals apprehended in late April 2025. This sprawling investigation, spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) El Paso Division, has exposed the vast reach of narcotics networks and the immense challenge of combating the flow of illicit fentanyl.
The Boy Who Cried Wolf : Marion City Council
by Marion-Watch
May 6, 2025
A contentious Marion City Hall meeting saw a mayoral proposal to limit public access spark citizen protest and council division. The "Can Do" organization faced financial scrutiny, contrasting with strong community support for Leapin' Ministries. The meeting ended with unresolved issues, highlighting concerns over trust and transparency in local governance.
Silent Sabotage: Did Marion Insiders Let Financial Problems Fester?
by Marion-Watch
May 5, 2025
Marion, Ohio continues to face significant, long-standing fiscal challenges rooted in decades of documented financial mismanagement and increasing, often unnoticed, debt since the late 1990s. This extensive report, significantly shaped by the work and input of Marion citizens, details the cumulative crisis, focusing on the Auditor's office since 1999. MarionWatch aims to inform residents about the issues' deep origins, empowering them for future decisions, as many were unaware of the problem's multi-decade history. Following a long-standing practice via its community action network, MarionWatch shared article drafts with numerous citizens for review before publication. The investigation reveals persistent oversight and planning failures impacting services and public trust. Meaningful recovery requires fundamental transparency, accountability, and long-term planning. Informed citizen engagement, including attending city council meetings, is vital for building a stable future.
A Quick Look: Marion’s Auditor Office: A Decades-Long Disaster Zone (Full Investigation Coming Soon)
by Marion-Watch
May 2, 2025
The Marion, Ohio, Auditor's office faces a financial storm, with current Auditor Meginness accused of misappropriating funds and concealing IRS penalties. This follows years of financial mismanagement, including a predecessor's resignation and issues dating back to 1999. Persistent failures raise questions about systemic weaknesses and the need for lasting reforms. MarionWatch will release its Auditor Investigative report soon!
Judge Accuses Border Patrol of Racial Profiling in California Sweep, Limits Border Patrol Actions
by Marion-Watch
May 1, 2025
On April 29, 2025, Judge Jennifer L. Thurston issued a preliminary injunction in California, limiting U.S. Border Patrol stops and warrantless arrests. The ruling, in United Farm Workers v. Noem, stemmed from a lawsuit alleging targeting during a sweep far from the border. The judge expressed concern about racial profiling, stating, "You just can't walk up to people with brown skin and say, 'Give me your papers.'"
The Price of Neglect: Fines and Closures Reveal Deep Problems in Ohio’s Treatment Industry
by Marion-Watch
April 30, 2025
MarionWatch, in collaboration with our national allies such as Jennifer Barton's team and others unequivocally condemns these abhorrent acts, attributing them to individuals who are "oath breakers". We stand firm in our support for the relentless pursuit and maximum legal prosecution of those responsible. We, the People, hold the power to demand unwavering transparency, accountability, and truth. This has tragically evolved into a nationwide crisis with a deadliness comparable to the very addiction it was initially intended to combat.
Is Council Listening? Citizens Demand Answers on Leaked Audio, Finances in Heated Confrontation
by Marion-Watch
April 29, 2025
Ultimately, ensuring council adheres to these principles may require sustained public engagement. Marion Watch encourages residents to attend future meetings – because if we, the people, do not speak up now, our grounds to complain about what happens next are diminished.
Operation Tidal Wave: Looking Closer at Florida’s Multi-Agency Immigration Crackdown 700-800 Arrested
by Marion-Watch
April 28, 2025
A large-scale immigration enforcement operation, dubbed "Operation Tidal Wave," led to the arrest of nearly 800 undocumented immigrants across Florida in its initial four days. ICE officials hailed the effort as a "massive" and unprecedented collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, deploying officers in major cities statewide. The operation signals a significant intensification of immigration enforcement under the Trump administration.
Hiding in Plain Sight: The Gardener of Bridgehampton: Faustin Nsabumukunzi and the Echoes of Rwanda’s Genocide
by Marion-Watch
April 27, 2025
In affluent Bridgehampton, NY, where Faustin Nsabumukunzi was known as a quiet gardener and beekeeper, his April 2025 arrest shocked the community. U.S. charges linked the 65-year-old to Rwanda's 1994 genocide, decades and continents away. His seemingly tranquil life hid a dark past, bringing the echoes of a horrific history to a peaceful enclave.
Federal Blitz in Colorado Springs: DEA-Led Raid Nets 114 Immigrants, Military Personnel at Alleged Drug & Gang Hub
by Marion-Watch
April 27, 2025
Federal authorities raided a suspected underground nightclub in Colorado Springs early Sunday, arresting over 100 undocumented immigrants. Led by the DEA and involving multiple agencies, the operation targeted a hub for alleged drug trafficking, prostitution, and violent crime, reportedly linked to gangs like Tren de Aragua and MS-13. Drugs and weapons were seized.
#walkaway Locked Out & Kept in the Dark: Legal Challenges Loom Over Marion Mayor’s Suggested Exclusion of Whistleblower, Closed Council Meetings
by Marion-Watch
April 27, 2025
This analysis examines the legality of excluding a Marion, Ohio council member from meetings due to whistleblower actions, and closing meetings to discuss related matters. A leaked audio recording features Twila Laing and Mayor Bill Collins discussing Councilman Jason Schaber's exclusion and closing meetings, actions prompted by Schaber's alleged whistleblowing on unlawful or unethical activities.
Vulnerabilities and Documented Overreach in Federal and State Firearms Regulation Systems
by Marion-Watch
April 26, 2025
When we look at the views of the Founding Fathers of the United States of America, we get a better viewpoint regarding a tyrannical government—the type of government the Founding Fathers had just escaped from.
Marion Watch Investigates: RepliesRegarding Serious Allegations and OhioMHAS Visits First Step Recovery, Others
by Marion-Watch
April 24, 2025
As a watchdog for our community, MarionWatch has received disturbing reports concerning addiction treatment facilities in Marion, particularly First Step Recovery.
Breaking: OhioMHAS Visits Marion Addiction Centers as Concerns Linger; Whistleblower Bravery Highlighted
by Marion-Watch
April 23, 2025
Following the release of a detailed report outlining significant ethical and legal concerns within addiction recovery frameworks and highlighting specific allegations at First Step Recovery in Marion, Ohio, state officials have reportedly visited local facilities.
BEYOND THE BALLOT: MARIONWATCH INVESTIGATES THE SHADOW WAR OF POLITICAL CHARACTER ASSASSINATIONS –
by Marion-Watch
April 22, 2025
Part I: Robert Landon: Timing, Resources, and Political Motivation in the 2019 Marion City Auditor Election Executive Summary This report examines the circumstances surrounding the criminal charges filed against Robert Landon during his successful 2019 campaign for City Auditor in Marion, Ohio. Landon, a Republican candidate, was charged with misdemeanor election law violations concerning the…
Battlefield Marion Flashback: Politically Motivated Character Assassination a Long Standing Marion Tradition
by Marion-Watch
April 20, 2025
Please find below a PDF of an article from 2019. With our newest investigation nearing completion after nearly 5 months, we wanted to make this available to anyone who hasn’t had a chance to read it. The media mentioned in the article can be found by clicking the URL/hyperlinks. We have enabled file downloads to…
With Lives on the Line: Marion not Immune to Nationwide Pattern of Breaches, Standards, and Oversight: Ethical and Legal Complexities in Addiction Recovery
by Marion-Watch
April 18, 2025
*A Note from the Senior Editors of Marion Watch: With deep concern for our community, we share the following information, compiled over months of careful work. Please know that gathering this was difficult, and there is more that needs to be understood. We believe these sensitive issues must be brought into the light with compassion,…
“Walk Away Ray”: Marion County Prosecutor Faces Public Outcry Over Mishandled Cases
by Marion-Watch
April 14, 2025
Justice Questioned in Marion County: An Investigation into Prosecutor Ray Grogan’s Case Handling Introduction: Scrutiny on the Marion County Prosecutor’s OfficeSetting the Scene Marion County, Ohio, a community known for its rich history and as the birthplace of Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn, operates within Ohio’s established legal framework.1 Central to its local justice system is the…
Deadly Merchant Part II: Ohio Connections to Mexican Cartels and International Networks (2014-April 2025)
by Marion-Watch
April 10, 2025
This report provides an updated analysis of fentanyl trafficking in Ohio from January 2014 to April 2025, expanding on previous investigations to incorporate a more comprehensive timeframe. Key findings reveal a significant and evolving role of Mexican drug cartels, particularly the Sinaloa Cartel and Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), in supplying fentanyl to Ohio.
Hometown Hero: Ed McCants – A Marion Champion Building a Stronger Town
by Marion-Watch
April 9, 2025
Hometown Hero: Ed McCants – A Marion Champion Building a Stronger Town Marion, Ohio, a city with a storied past and an eye firmly on the future, is currently capturing national attention as a determined contender in the prestigious Strongest Towns contest. This competition, which recognizes communities demonstrating innovative and resilient urban development strategies, has…
Deadly Merchant: The little known Mexican Cartel-Chinese Connections
by Marion-Watch
April 7, 2025
The analysis of available information reveals a strong indication of collaboration between drug cartels, particularly the Sinaloa Cartel, and Chinese actors in the broader fentanyl supply chain. This collaboration manifests in several ways, including the supply of precursor chemicals from China used by cartels to manufacture fentanyl, the historical direct manufacturing of fentanyl in China for the US market, and the involvement of Chinese underground banking in laundering drug proceeds for cartels. While the direct evidence of this collaboration within the specific cases of Operation Deadly Merchant might be nuanced, the broader context provided by related operations and investigations strongly suggests this connection is a significant factor in the fentanyl crisis targeted by these law enforcement efforts.
Marion, Ohio: A Community Forged in Crisis Rises as a City Reborn
by Marion-Watch
April 4, 2025
From Scarce Resources to a Network of Hope: How Marion, Ohio, is Building a Stronger Future by Confronting Addiction and Mental Health Challenges. A note from the Senior Editors: An Exciting Note from the Original Marion Watch Core Team: We recently had an insightful discussion with Mr. Walker focusing on a critical issue: the…

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