Ohio Assistant Prosecutor Resigns After Accusing Judge of Sexual Assault

The prosecutor cited the anticipated return of the judge to the bench as the reason for her resignation.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:34am

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An Ohio county assistant prosecutor has resigned from her position after accusing a local judge of sexual assault. In her resignation letter, the prosecutor cited the anticipated return of Judge James Schuck to the bench as the reason she is unable to continue working at the office.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex power dynamics and challenges faced by those who come forward with allegations of misconduct, especially when the accused holds a position of authority. The prosecutor's resignation raises questions about the support and protections available for those who report abuse of power.

The details

The assistant prosecutor accused Judge James Schuck of sexual assault, leading to a protection order being filed. Schuck has admitted to a personal relationship outside of his marriage but has denied any criminal wrongdoing. He has been on a voluntary leave of absence since last November, and the investigation is ongoing. The consent agreement allows Schuck to enter the Delaware County Courthouse, where both parties work.

  • The assistant prosecutor's last day is May 11, 2026.
  • Schuck has been on a voluntary leave of absence since last November 2025.
  • The protection order is effective through November 25, 2026.

The players

Melissa Shiffel

The Delaware County Prosecutor who accepted the assistant prosecutor's resignation.

Judge James Schuck

A local judge accused of sexual assault by the assistant prosecutor, who has admitted to a personal relationship outside of his marriage but denied any criminal wrongdoing.

Brad Koffel

The attorney representing Judge Schuck, who stated that the relationship was consensual and that the assistant prosecutor either quit or was given the opportunity to resign.

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What they’re saying

“I have suffered, and continue to suffer, from the effects of a wrongful, power-imbalanced relationship with Judge Schuck. For that reason, I cannot continue my career with the Delaware County Prosecutor's Office under circumstances where his return is both anticipated and imminent.”

— The assistant prosecutor

“Let me be crystal clear: this was a consensual sexual relationship that [assistant prosecutor] pursued and continued. He agreed to the consent order because there was no reason to fight that. [Assistant prosecutor] either quit or was given the opportunity to resign. I don't know.”

— Brad Koffel, Attorney for Judge Schuck

What’s next

The investigation into the allegations against Judge Schuck is ongoing, and it remains to be seen if he will return to the bench.

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges and risks faced by those who come forward with allegations of misconduct, especially when the accused holds a position of power. It underscores the need for stronger support systems and protections for whistleblowers to ensure that justice is served and abuse of power is addressed.