Man linked to OSU tattoo-parlor scandal seeks nearby prison

COLUMBUS (AP) — The tattoo parlor owner whose purchase of Ohio State University football memorabilia triggered a far-reaching scandal and an ongoing NCAA investigation could serve his prison sentence close to home.

Edward Rife has been sentenced to three years in prison after his conviction earlier this year on drug trafficking and money laundering charges.

The 31-year-old Rife wants to do his time at a minimum-security federal prison in Morgantown, W. Va., about four hours from his home in Columbus, and participate in a substance-abuse counseling program there.

U.S. District Court Judge Gregory Frost last week agreed to recommend the placement to the Bureau of Prisons, where a spokesman says the judge’s request will be considered along with other factors.

Rife faced no charges related to the scandal.