Former East Cleveland Municipal Court Clerk Sentenced for Theft

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A former deputy clerk at the East Cleveland Municipal Court, 61-year-old Orlando Chappell, was sentenced to five years of probation after pleading guilty to federal program theft. Chappell admitted to embezzling cash payments from landlords over an 11-year period from 2012 to 2023, totaling $37,931.47, by not properly recording the transactions.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of oversight and accountability within municipal court systems, where public trust and proper handling of funds are critical. The theft of government funds, even at a local level, can have broader implications for the community and erode confidence in public institutions.

The details

As a deputy clerk, Chappell's responsibilities included collecting fees from landlords for forcible entry and detainer filings. He admitted to pocketing cash payments instead of properly recording the transactions. Because East Cleveland received federal grants and assistance during Chappell's employment, he was eligible to be charged in a U.S. District Court for defrauding the U.S. government.

• From 2012 to 2023, Chappell was employed at various times as a deputy clerk with the East Cleveland Municipal Court.
• In August 2025, Chappell pleaded guilty to federal program theft.
• On February 17, 2026, Chappell was sentenced to five years of probation and ordered to pay $37,931.47 in restitution.