A North Ridgeville City Schools employee, identified as 27-year-old Hannah Freeman, has been placed on administrative leave following her arrest on charges of theft and felony menacing by stalking. Freeman’s arrest by Westlake police on Nov. 7 comes after a series of troubling allegations from her ex-boyfriend, who claimed she engaged in repeated harassment and theft.
Details of the Incidents According to Westlake Police Captain Gerald Vogel, the ex-boyfriend initially contacted police on Nov. 6 to report that Freeman had taken a laptop and other belongings from his unlocked vehicle parked on Detroit Road. He stated that Freeman had been visiting his home, his parents’ residence, and even his workplace unexpectedly for the past six months, causing significant emotional distress.
The situation escalated on Nov. 7 when Freeman allegedly followed her ex-boyfriend to his job in Westlake. The ex-boyfriend claimed that when he went inside the building, Freeman entered his vehicle once more. Responding officers found Freeman in her own car nearby, in possession of several items stolen from her ex-boyfriend. Authorities then arrested Freeman on the scene.
Court Appearance and Charges Freeman appeared in Rocky River Municipal Court on Nov. 8, where she pleaded not guilty. She was released on her own recognizance, under the condition that she adheres to a criminal protection order designed to shield the victim from further harassment. Westlake police indicated that more charges could be added when the case goes before the Cuyahoga County Grand Jury.
Response from North Ridgeville City Schools In a statement, North Ridgeville City Schools confirmed that Freeman had been placed on administrative leave as soon as the district learned of her arrest. The school district emphasized that the matter does not involve school-related activities and assured the public of its commitment to a safe environment for all.
“This matter does not pertain directly to school activities, and as such, the district will not be issuing additional statements at this time,” the statement read. “However, North Ridgeville City Schools is committed to cooperating fully with law enforcement as needed to support a thorough and fair resolution. Our primary focus remains on maintaining a positive and safe environment for all students and staff.”
Police Investigation Westlake police noted that Freeman’s vehicle had been identified at the victim’s workplace multiple times over the past month. The use of Flock cameras helped track Freeman’s car at the location on 19 separate days within a 30-day period, underscoring the repeated nature of her alleged harassment.
The case continues to develop, and the North Ridgeville community remains focused on ensuring the well-being and safety of its students and staff.