An Ohio mayor now faces voyeurism charges after a teenager’s hidden camera allegedly recorded him entering her bedroom.
Wesley Dingus, 48, the Republican mayor of the Village of Butler in Richland County, was arraigned this week on two counts of voyeurism. Court records show he pleaded not guilty.
The charges stem from an investigation led by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office after a minor reported suspicious activity inside her home.
Teen’s Camera Sparked Investigation
According to the official sheriff’s report, the case began on January 13 after Richland County Children’s Services contacted law enforcement about a video recorded by a minor.
The teenager told investigators she suspected someone had been entering her bedroom without permission. She purchased a small camera and placed it inside her room before leaving for school.
About 15 minutes after she left home on January 13, she received a motion alert. When she reviewed the footage, she said it showed Dingus entering the room.
The following morning, at 7:17 a.m., another alert was triggered. Investigators say the second video also showed Dingus inside the room. The recordings were turned over to authorities.
Charges and Court Conditions
The case was referred to the Mansfield City Law Director’s Office on January 26. On February 12, deputies prepared two summonses for voyeurism charges after consulting with Assistant Law Director Rob Sharp.
Dingus was officially served the next day.
Magistrate John D. McCollister set bond at 10,000 dollars with 10 percent allowed. The court ordered electronic monitoring and prohibited Dingus from contacting the alleged victim.
Previous Legal Troubles
This is not Dingus’ first time in court.
In August 2025, he was indicted on four charges, including aggravated assault and vehicular assault, after authorities alleged he struck a suspect fleeing police with his vehicle.
Those charges remain pending. He also pleaded not guilty in that case and was released on 25,000 dollars bond. A judge ordered him not to drive and required electronic monitoring.
What Happens Next
The voyeurism case will now move through the Richland County court system. Prosecutors will determine whether the matter proceeds to trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
Under Ohio law, defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The allegations have shaken the small Village of Butler community as residents await further developments in a case involving one of its highest elected officials.