WHITEHALL, Ohio — Whitehall City Councilmember Gerald Dixon was sworn into office Tuesday evening after winning re-election last month, just hours after appearing in court on felony sex crime charges that police say date back nearly 30 years.

Dixon, who was arrested Monday night at his home and spent the night in jail, is facing charges of compelling prostitution and gross sexual imposition. He was released Tuesday on his own recognizance and remains on city council while the investigation continues.

The multi-state investigation began when allegations were brought to the Whitehall Police Department in 2020 and 2021, according to Police Chief Mike Crispen. Dixon is accused of engaging in inappropriate conduct with juvenile males.

"To date, we have interviewed eight individuals connec

See Full Page