Local News

Aug 15, 2025

Columbus man sentenced to over 100 years in prison for the rape of a child


44 year old Johnathon Grove of Columbus was sentenced to over 100 years in prison this week on charges that included 1st degree felony rape of a female under the age of 13 in the Fort Recovery area. Other charges included the illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material and importuning. According to prosecutors, Grove's relatonship with the child began in 2020 over social media. Grove was found guilty recently in a trial in Mercer County Common Pleas Court. Should Grove ever be released from prison, he would be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. 


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