New evidence has emerged in the troubling case against Gerald Dixon, a city councilman in Whitehall, Ohio. He is facing serious allegations, including felony gross sexual imposition and felony prostitution of a minor. These charges have prompted increased scrutiny from both the community and law enforcement. Despite the allegations, Dixon continues to serve on the council, igniting concern among residents and city officials.
Dixon was arrested recently and released on his own recognizance after spending less than 24 hours in jail. The accusations against him span nearly three decades, with police records indicating that at least eight individuals have come forward claiming they were victimized by him. As the investigation unfolds, a task force of five Whitehall police investigators is collaborating with external agencies to review thousands of documents and digital evidence collected from his home.
The police have noted that several 911 calls dating back to 2016 reported children selling water bottles outside Dixon’s residence. This activity raised safety concerns among callers, particularly because of the proximity to a busy intersection. Whitehall Police Chief Mike Crispen stated that these incidents have now become relevant to the ongoing investigation.
“It seemed benign at first,” Crispen remarked during a press conference. “But then it became multiple calls and some of the kids said they were working for him. We were told he got mad when they said they wouldn’t work for him anymore.” The logs reviewed by ABC 6 reveal that out of 139 calls made to his home since 2007, 45 were categorized as juvenile complaints.
In addition to the water sales, police records indicate a bus stop near Dixon’s home, where tensions have also arisen. In a notable incident from 2020, Dixon reported to dispatchers that a group of teenagers had shouted an obscenity at him outside his property.
Local residents have expressed mixed sentiments regarding Dixon. JoAnn Sanders, a longtime neighbor, stated, “I’ve never seen anything bad. I’ve talked to him a bunch of times. He stands up for Ward 1. The truth comes out in the end. If he did it, he’s going to pay for it.”
Despite the growing concern, city leaders are considering a motion to remove Dixon from his position, although no formal decision has been made yet. Council President Thomas Potter has been contacted for comments but has not responded.
The legal process continues, with Dixon scheduled to appear in court on December 23, 2023. In the meantime, local authorities are urging anyone who believes they may be a victim of sexual assault to reach out to the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or call 911.
As the investigation deepens, the community awaits further developments in this serious case that has captured significant local attention.
