Lead Investigator in FirstEnergy Bribery Trial May Plead the Fifth

Prosecutors and defense attorneys say Eric Lehnhart plans to invoke his right against self-incrimination if called to testify.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The lead investigator in the high-profile FirstEnergy bribery trial, Eric Lehnhart, may not testify after informing prosecutors and defense attorneys that he plans to plead the Fifth Amendment and refuse to answer questions. Lehnhart, a special agent with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, has previously been accused of falsifying documents in a separate case.

Why it matters

Lehnhart's refusal to testify is seen as a major blow to the state's case, as he was the lead investigator who conducted or sat in on 32 witness interviews. His decision to invoke his Fifth Amendment rights raises questions about the credibility and thoroughness of the investigation.

The details

Prosecutors and defense attorneys told the judge that Lehnhart's attorneys said he planned to plead the Fifth if called as a witness. The defense called this revelation "jarring" and a blow to the state's credibility. Prosecutors said Lehnhart's role was mostly documenting records and serving subpoenas, with the investigation conducted by a task force including local officials and the state attorney general's office.

  • On Monday, prosecutors and defense attorneys informed the judge of Lehnhart's plans.
  • Last week, defense attorneys accused the state of prosecutorial misconduct for failing to disclose key evidence until mid-trial.
  • On Wednesday, U.S. Sen. John Husted, who has not been accused of wrongdoing, is scheduled to testify on behalf of the defense.

The players

Eric Lehnhart

The lead investigator in the FirstEnergy bribery trial, who is a special agent with the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and has previously been accused of falsifying documents in a separate case.

Steve Grimes

An attorney representing defendant former FirstEnergy lobbyist Michael Dowling.

Matthew Meyer

An assistant Ohio attorney general prosecuting the case.

Susan Baker Ross

The Summit County Court of Common Pleas judge presiding over the trial.

Chuck Jones

The former FirstEnergy CEO who is facing charges in the bribery scandal.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.