Trial date set for teen charged with attempted breaking-in at Ohio party boss' house

PORT CLINTON, Ohio (AP) — A March 11 jury trial has been scheduled for a 19-year-old high school student charged with attempting a break-in at the home of Ohio’s Democratic chairman.

The Port Clinton News-Herald reports today that Alexander Reitzel was arrested Dec. 8 after a security camera recorded him trying three different doors at the residence of chairman and state Rep. Chris Redfern.

Reitzel’s attorney, Tom DeBacco, told a judge this week there was no evidence Reitzel intended to steal anything, hurt anyone or destroy property. DeBacco said Reitzel wanted his parents to buy the $874,000 house, which is for sale.

DeBacco says the case is overblown because Redfern and the Ottawa County prosecutor share a political affiliation.

Redfern called the allegation “gutless and shameless,” saying he reported the break-in to protect his family.