On Friday, December 13, 2024, the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct recommended a two-year suspension for Attorney Ryan Richard Black, following findings of professional misconduct stemming from his tenure as Hocking County prosecutor. The board’s recommendation addressed serious allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct and the misuse of his public office.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Ryan Richard Black,” with case no. 2024-012.
The case was heard on September 11, 2024, by a panel that included Hon. D. Chris Cook, Aletha M. Carver, and Hon. Candace C. Crouse, who served as the panel chair. Black was present during the hearing. The allegations against Black consisted of three counts, but the panel dismissed two of them, focusing primarily on the first count of inappropriate sexual conduct with employees.
According to the findings, Black engaged in inappropriate behavior toward two prosecutor office employees. For instance, the complaint indicated that he made sexually explicit comments and sent inappropriate messages to an assistant prosecutor, Stephanie Russell-Ramos. Evidence presented during the hearing revealed instances where Black commented on Russell-Ramos’s attire in a sexually suggestive manner and sent her a shirtless photograph of himself.
The complaint also noted that Black had engaged in unprofessional conduct marked by erratic behavior, including screaming outbursts and a general atmosphere of fear among staff members. This behavior prompted concerns regarding his mental health, as he has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and has a history of alcohol abuse.
The report detailed that Black had undergone treatment for his mental health and substance abuse issues, including a recent relapse in October 2023. He entered treatment again in December 2023 and completed inpatient care by March 2024. In January 2024, he signed a recovery contract with the Ohio Lawyers Assistance Program, committing to abstain from mood-altering substances.
The panel found, through clear and convincing evidence, that Black’s actions constituted professional misconduct. After considering various aggravating and mitigating factors, the panel ultimately recommended that Black be suspended from practicing law for two years, with six months of the suspension stayed under specific conditions.
The investigation into Black’s conduct began after reports of his inappropriate behavior surfaced, leading to the official complaint against him. Although the initial charges included two counts that were dismissed, the findings on Count One confirmed that his behavior violated the Ohio Rules of Professional Conduct, specifically relating to the maintenance of professional integrity and respect within the workplace.
The recommendation for suspension will be reviewed by the Supreme Court of Ohio, which has the final say on attorney discipline. If the recommendation is accepted, Black will face a significant setback in his legal career, as a suspension would prevent him from practicing law during the duration of the penalty.
According to avvo.com, Mr. Black is an attorney in Columbus, Ohio. He acquired his law license in Ohio in 2018.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
