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A former Hocking County deputy is sentenced to prison after his conviction on multiple felonies

By: WOUB News Team
Posted on: Friday, May 1, 2026

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ATHENS, Ohio (WOUB) — A former chief deputy with the Hocking County Sheriff’s Office was sentenced Friday morning to seven to nine years in prison.

The sentencing of Caleb Moritz, of Logan, follows his March 25 conviction in Ross County. A jury found him guilty of seven felony charges, including corrupting another with drugs, intimidation of an attorney, victim or witness, unlawful transaction in weapons, theft and forgery.

Numerous complaints of corruption tied to his employment and interactions with confidential informants and victims sparked an investigation by the Hocking County Prosecutor’s Office. Upon resigning from his position in April 2023, Moritz stole property, including a firearm, from the sheriff’s office.

“Law enforcement must serve with integrity to maintain trust and safety in their communities.  This defendant neglected that duty and dishonored the badge,” Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said. “The residents of Hocking County deserve better.”

Moritz was initially charged in Hocking County in 2023, but at the request of the defense and prosecution, the case was tried in Ross County.

Yost’s Special Prosecutions Section led the prosecution of the case.