Lorain County Recorder Michael Doran pleaded not guilty in Elyria Municipal Court on July 24 to a charge of sexual imposition, a third-degree misdemeanor under Ohio law. The charge stems from an alleged incident that occurred on April 25, 2025.
Judge Thomas A. White set Doran’s personal recognizance bond at $500 and issued a no-contact order barring him from communicating with the alleged victim. The court also addressed concerns about potential encounters at political events, which both parties reportedly attend. Judge Bennett emphasized that the no-contact order should not interfere with Doran’s ability to perform the duties of his elected office.
Elyria Law Director Amanda Deery appointed a special outside prosecutor due to potential political implications and to avoid conflicts of interest..
Doran was initially expected to assert his right to a speedy trial. However, after a recess and consultation with his attorney, he waived that right to allow time for case preparation and discovery. A pretrial hearing has been scheduled for September 8 at 1:30 p.m.
The case was filed on July 8 and served on July 15.
The charge followed an investigation by Elyria police. Mr. Doran, 41, has served as Lorain County Recorder since 2021.
Mr. Doran remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.