WFMJ.com News weather sports for Youngstown-Warren OhioLeone sworn in as Struthers Municipal Court judge

Leone sworn in as Struthers Municipal Court judge

Dominic Leone took the oath of office Thursday, sworn in as the new Struthers Municipal Court Judge.

It was a standing-room only event, with friends and family eager to see the next step for Leone.

"I am blessed by having so many people that believe in me. I don't want to let them down," said Leone.

Leone's first official day behind the bench is Wednesday, January 3rd. He takes over the role, after allegations of campaign finance irregularities popped up just before the election.

The Mahoning County Sheriff's office said it's up to BCI whether those allegations warrant an investigation. Leone says, he hasn't been contacted by law enforcement and he's trying to move forward.

"My integrity has never been attacked, but 30 days before the election. So I'm looking forward to the truth finally coming out. Hopefully it's sooner rather than later," said Leone.

As for his plans for his new role, Leone has many: some big, some small. He says he has already applied for a technology grant for the court, and is working on adding video arraignments. Some of the smaller items on his to-do list include a kiosk to make it easier for people to pay, and improving security for the entire building.

In the meantime, he is busy studying some of the best practices from courts around the area, trying to absorb as much as he can before he is the one sitting behind the bench in less than two weeks.

"I'm like a sponge right now," said Leone.