A city laptop, tucked behind a fridge and a stack of boxes, kicked off the latest controversy in Cleveland Heights. The device was discovered on the same day interviews were being held for a workplace investigation involving Mayor Kahlil Seren’s wife — and it didn’t take long for suspicions to swirl. Law department staff suspected the mayor had planted the laptop to secretly record those interviews. Their concerns were serious enough that the Cleveland Heights police chief asked the state to consider a criminal investigation. Though the Bureau of Criminal Investigation declined to get involved, the matter didn’t go away. City Council called an emergency meeting Friday evening after cleveland.com reported the details of the chief’s letter. By the end of the night, council had passed a resolution urging an outside criminal probe — and asking Seren to consider stepping down. This all comes on the heels of several turbulent months for the mayor’s administration, marked by public confrontations, staff resignations and allegations against his wife that have included workplace harassment and antisemitic remarks. It's a level of political turmoil rarely — if ever — seen in Northeast Ohio. And it might just culminate with a mayor seeking re-election while also being recalled on the same September ballot. — Leila Atassi |
Overnight Scores and Weather |
Guardians at Seattle Mariners: Guardians swept out of Seattle after 6-0 loss to Mariners Northeast Ohio weather forecast: Clouds and late storms |
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Surveillance video showed Mayor Kahlil Seren using a device to access the city's law department at 7:09 a.m. on Wednesday, April 3, and 3:27 p.m. on Saturday, April 5. (Video courtesy of Cleveland Heights Municipal Court) |
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Scandal in the suburbs: Cleveland Heights law department staffers sought a criminal investigation into Mayor Kahlil Seren, suspecting a secret recording attempt during a workplace investigation. Cory Shaffer reports on allegations that Seren might have attempted to illegally record interviews related to his wife's conduct. Public records fight: After backlash from media and justice advocates, Ohio Senate Republicans have scaled back proposed budget language that could have kept most police records permanently hidden. Jeremy Pelzer reports on the compromise deal — struck between prosecutors and the Ohio Innocence Project — that still expands exemptions, but in a far more limited way. Solar energy: A $129 million federal solar farm grant is stalled by a dispute between Cleveland and Cuyahoga County over connection terms. Sean McDonnell reports that Mayor Justin Bibb and County Executive Chris Ronayne are at odds over how Cuyahoga County can connect to Cleveland Public Power. American manufacturing: U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes introduced legislation providing tax credits for U.S.-made retreaded tires to support American manufacturing. Sabrina Eaton reports the bipartisan bill is backed by tire giants Goodyear and Bridgestone. Today in Ohio: Ohio’s unclaimed funds account has grown by 50% in just five years — and while the state credits improved outreach, critics say ditching the old method of advertising the full list in newspapers might be leaving some people behind. On Today in Ohio, we’re talking about the $5 billion in that state repository of orphaned funds — and how hard it is to stake your claim. |
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Taxing the news: A little-noticed provision in the Ohio Senate’s budget proposal would end a 90-year-old sales tax exemption for newspapers. Mary Frances McGowan reports that critics warn the move could raise subscription costs, hurt small businesses and deepen Ohio’s growing news deserts. Property tax shakeup: Ohio lawmakers are weighing the biggest overhaul of the state’s property tax system in decades. Anna Staver breaks down the complex web of proposed changes — from new tax relief programs to major shifts in how schools and cities are funded — and what it could mean for your wallet and your community. Acton ads: Dr. Amy Acton launched her first Ohio gubernatorial campaign ad, targeting GOP opponents and highlighting her pandemic leadership. Mary Frances McGowan reports on Acton's message of hope and community empowerment. Bribery scandal: Former FirstEnergy executives are set to testify under immunity about the House Bill 6 bribery scandal. Jeremy Pelzer and Laura Hancock report that Dennis Chack was the first to take the stand Friday, denying involvement while revealing details about interactions with former PUCO Chair Sam Randazzo. Unclaimed money: Ohio's unclaimed funds account has ballooned to $5 billion, with the state making it increasingly difficult for people to retrieve their money. The Today in Ohio hosts talk about mounting frustration with what appears to be a deliberate effort by the state to make retrieving your money increasingly difficult. |
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‘No Kings’ protests: Thousands of demonstrators across Northeast Ohio joined a nationwide “No Kings” protest against the Trump administration, rallying in multiple cities to challenge perceived authoritarian policies. Hannah Drown and Olivia Mitchell report on the peaceful demonstrations that drew participants of all ages, united in their concern for democratic values. Immigration: Cuyahoga County's Welcome Center is helping immigrants rebuild their lives by providing language services and access to public benefits. Kaitlin Durbin reports on the center's success in serving over 8,700 people since opening in February 2024. Fatal fire: A man is dead and another is in critical condition following a house fire early Sunday morning, Megan Sims reports. A 60-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 45-year-old man was transported to the hospital in critical condition. Road closures: Snow Road near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport will be closed overnight for bridge work, causing traffic detours. Rich Exner reports the temporary closure from 9 p.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. Wednesday is part of an ongoing bridge replacement project. Also, beginning 9 p.m. Friday, the Miles Road ramp to I-480 west in Warrensville Heights will be closed for bridge repairs through June 29. |
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TSA expansion: Susan Glaser reports on Cleveland Hopkins Airport's $3.5 million TSA checkpoint expansion, doubling lanes and improving queuing space to address long security lines. In addition, travelers can now make a reservation for valet parking at the airport. Pediatric healthcare: The Cleveland Clinic will close the 14-bed inpatient pediatric unit at Hillcrest Hospital on Aug. 5, replacing it with a nine-bed short-stay unit. Cory Shaffer reports the change reflects demographic shifts in Northeast Ohio, with the clinic converting the space to meet growing adult care demand. COVID-19 detection: Cleveland health officials warn residents about a significant 250% spike in COVID-19 levels detected in city wastewater, signaling potential increased community spread. Molly Walsh reports the Cleveland Department of Public Health also noted rising flu and RSV levels, urging residents to stay updated on vaccinations and take preventive measures. |
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Teen slain: A 15-year-old boy was shot and killed Friday evening in Akron in what police are calling a tragic act of violence. Kaylee Remington reports authorities have not released information on potential suspects or motives. Gun at school: A Cleveland mother, Helen Osorio, pleaded guilty to brandishing a gun at a student following a fight involving her child at Charles A. Mooney School. David Gambino reports that Osorio was charged with possession of a deadly weapon in a school safety zone and aggravated menacing, which triggered a temporary school lockdown. Charity fraud: A Cuyahoga County grand jury has indicted five people and accused them of using a fake charitable organization to exploit veterans and defraud the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs out of $20 million, David Gambino reports. Armed robberies: A Shaker Heights man, Charles Fritz, was indicted for 16 armed robberies across Cleveland between March and July 2023. David Gambino reports Fritz faces 134 charges and was assisted by a 17-year-old accomplice who has already been sentenced to 10.5 years in prison. Dogs shot: A Stark County deputy has been fired after shooting two dogs during a 911 response, killing one and injuring another. Lucas Daprile reports that Deputy Alexander Stahl shot the dogs after responding to a call about aggressive animals that had reportedly bitten two people. The Stark County Sheriff's Department deemed the use of lethal force inappropriate as a first response. Police crash: An Eastlake police response to an accidental shooting at a gun range resulted in a multi-vehicle crash, injuring officers and residents. Lucas Daprile reports the incident occurred when police initially believed a serious shooting had taken place. Parole denied: The Ohio Parole Board has denied release for former Akron police captain Douglas Prade, who was convicted of killing his wife in 1997. Prade, 79, will not be eligible for parole again until 2033, with the board citing the "brutality and callousness" of his crime. |
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'SNL' celebration: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame celebrated its latest exhibit “SNL: Ladies & Gentlemen … 50 Years of Music” with a Saturday evening event featuring remarks and music-themed comedy from Fred Armisen, actor, comedian, musician, 11-year SNL alum and lifelong fan of the show, Malcolm X Abram reports. Cast change: Broadway veteran Ann Morrison will join the national tour of "Kimberly Akimbo" at Playhouse Square on July 29. Joey Morona reports that Morrison, known for originating the role of Mary Flynn in "Merrily We Roll Along," will take over the title role from Carolee Carmello. Goose influence: Peter Chakerian explores how the jam band Goose developed a strong connection with Ohio fans, dubbed "Showhio.” North Mississippi Allstars: The North Mississippi Allstars return to Cleveland, celebrating their 25-year musical journey with a new album "Still Shakin'" and a performance at the Beachland Ballroom, Malcolm X Abram reports. Bagel expansion: Cocky's Bagels is opening its fourth location in University Heights this summer, expanding its fast-casual bagel sandwich concept, Yadi Rodriguez reports. House of the Week: Built in 1985, this five-bedroom, seven-bathroom (plus two half-baths) residence in Moreland Hills spans more than 16,000 square feet and is listed for $6.25 million, Joey Morona reports. |
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New principals announced for Independence Schools Read more Avon Local Schools finding it hard to replace Hodge Read more Solon students earn national honors in chemistry and speech and debate Read more Wet weather doesn’t stop Medina from celebrating Juneteenth Read more See Cuyahoga County home sales, other property transfer details for May (searchable database) Read more Brook Park Home Days 2025: Full event schedule and what’s new Read more Abilities Enrichment Center celebrates one year of joy, growth and belonging in Middleburg Heights Read more Mayfield Heights to celebrate annual Unity Days June 20-22; city states safety of attendees is ‘our priority’ Read more |
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