Initial charges were filed on Tuesday against Joseph Barnhart in connection with a Tuscarawas County deputy-involved shooting that occurred on July 4. Barnhart, 41, of Wainwright, faces multiple charges following the incident that led to his hospitalization and subsequent incarceration.
County Prosecutor Ryan Styer’s office prepared an initial complaint warrant in Tuscarawas County Southern District Court charging Barnhart with three counts:
- Count One: Having Weapons While Under Disability (Felony 3) – 2923.13(A(4), 2923.13(B)
- Count Two: Using Weapons While Intoxicated (Misdemeanor 1st Degree) – 2923.15(A), 2923.15(B)
- Count Three: Aggravated Menacing (Misdemeanor 1st Degree) – 2903.21(A), 2903.21(B)
Barnhart was released from the hospital on July 4, and is currently held in the Tuscarawas County Jail. He made his initial court appearance on July 10, 2024, where he was held on a $100,000 bond. A preliminary hearing for bind over to the grand jury is scheduled for July 16, 2024, at 10:15 a.m.
The incident unfolded after a call was made to the county’s 911 center reporting an intoxicated male firing a gun in the 1900 block of Wainwright Road. A neighbor, who made the call, reported that Barnhart was shooting in the direction of his home where his wife and children were present.
Upon arrival, deputies found Barnhart in his garage with a gun in hand. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, Barnhart allegedly pointed the gun at the deputies, prompting two officers to open fire. Barnhart was struck in the arm and leg.
Detective Sergeant Joseph Jones is leading the investigation into Barnhart’s charges. The Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Identification (BCI&I) remains the investigating agency reviewing the actions of the department.
