Former Ohio Senate Candidate Sued for Alleged Embezzlement of $4.1 Million
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Jon Leissler, a Summit County Republican and recent state Senate candidate, is facing a civil lawsuit from his former employer, 3B Holdings, alleging he embezzled $4.1 million from the company, with at least $800,000 allegedly channeled into his campaign. The lawsuit, filed last week, claims that Leissler, who served as chief financial officer, exploited his position to divert funds.
3B Holdings, along with two affiliated companies, accuses Leissler of inflating his salary and illegally using company credit cards to fund personal ventures, including his political campaign, a startup company, and even the purchase of a beach condo. According to the lawsuit, Leissler’s reported annual earnings of approximately $171,000 were grossly exceeded by his actual take-home amounts—totaling millions over several years. Notable expenditures also included significant investments in cryptocurrency and settling personal debts.
The legal proceedings revealed critical evidence, including credit card transactions showing contributions to Leissler’s campaign via WinRed, a Republican fundraising platform. 3B Holdings’ CEO, Leonard Bashkin, stated that he confronted Leissler about the discrepancies on Election Day, leading to the CFO’s termination.
Judge Kathryn Michael has taken initial action by granting 3B Holdings a legal attachment of properties purchased with the alleged stolen funds. The lawsuit lists multiple charges against Leissler, including theft and fraud. His wife, Michele, is also named as a defendant, with claims that she was aware of her husband’s actions. The couple has recently filed for divorce.
As the investigation unfolds, Leissler has yet to face criminal charges. With campaign finance reports due soon, scrutiny on Leissler’s financial dealings continues to grow amidst allegations of misconduct.
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