NEW PHILADELPHIA, Ohio — Three men have been convicted in connection with a brutal assault that took place in August, while a fourth is poised to plead guilty after cooperating with law enforcement. The violent encounter left the victim with significant facial injuries and has drawn attention to issues surrounding home invasions and community safety.
Christopher Beatty, a resident of New Philadelphia, and Jared Soltero from Minerva were found guilty of aggravated burglary and felonious assault following a jury trial. Beatty has been sentenced to a prison term ranging from 10 to 15 years but is currently appealing the decision. Meanwhile, Soltero is scheduled for sentencing on July 15.
Todd Riordan of Massillon chose to plead guilty to felonious assault and has cooperated fully with the prosecution throughout the legal proceedings. He has received a sentence of three to four and a half years in prison. Prosecuting Attorney Lacee Felix noted that Riordan’s cooperation contributed to the swift resolution of the case.
Felix revealed that the fourth defendant, Henry Wellman, is expected to enter a guilty plea as well, having assisted in building the prosecution’s case against the others. Thus far, the sentences handed down align with the recommendations from the prosecutors, emphasizing the office’s commitment to seeking justice for victims of violent crimes.
“This case underscores how seriously we treat home invasions and other violent offenses,” Felix stated. “We are appreciative of the victims for their resilience in facing two trials, and thankful to the New Philadelphia Police Department for conducting a thorough investigation.”
According to police reports, the four men had been drinking together before breaking into the victim’s home, where they physically assaulted him. The brutal attack not only left the victim with multiple facial fractures requiring surgical intervention but was also witnessed by his wife, adding to the emotional trauma.
“These men were co-workers who made a terrible decision after a long day out,” Felix explained. “They entered the home uninvited and attacked, which is unacceptable. All four participated in the assault, although two men did not directly engage in the violence.”
Judge Elizabeth Thomakos of the Tuscarawas County Common Pleas Court imposed the sentence on Riordan this past Monday. The conviction of Soltero followed closely behind, paving the way for a sense of closure for the victim and his family.
Beatty’s guilty verdict was reached earlier in March, and his subsequent appeal was filed a week later, suggesting ongoing legal battles ahead. The community continues to reflect on the implications of such violent acts and the importance of vigilance and accountability to ensure safety in local neighborhoods.