Rep. Brennan Praises Ohio Supreme Court Decision to Uphold Asset Freeze in ECOT Case

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Sean Patrick Brennan (D–Parma) today praised the decision by the Ohio Supreme Court to decline review of an appeal by William Lager, effectively leaving in place a lower court order that restricts his access to assets beyond basic living expenses.

The ruling marks a significant step forward in Ohio’s long-running effort to hold accountable those responsible for the collapse of the Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow (ECOT), once the state’s largest online charter school.

“This decision reinforces a simple but important principle: public dollars must be protected, and those entrusted with taxpayer funds must be held accountable,” said Rep. Brennan. “Allowing the asset freeze to remain in place helps ensure that funds are preserved while the state continues its efforts to recover money owed to Ohio taxpayers.”

The asset freeze stems from litigation initiated in 2018 by the Ohio Attorney General’s Office seeking to recoup hundreds of millions of dollars in alleged overpayments tied to ECOT. Courts have since issued judgments totaling well over $100 million against entities controlled by Lager.

Rep. Brennan emphasized that the court’s decision protects the integrity of Ohio’s education system and sends a strong message about fiscal responsibility.

“For years, Ohioans watched as one of the largest education scandals in our state’s history unfolded,” continued Rep. Brennan. “Today’s outcome helps safeguard the public interest and moves us closer to ensuring that taxpayers are made whole.”

The Ohio Supreme Court declined jurisdiction without issuing a written opinion. A prior ruling by the Tenth District Court of Appeals found that the preliminary injunction was not a final appealable order and noted that the order includes provisions allowing for reasonable living expenses.

“Just as importantly, this case highlights the urgent need for stronger oversight and accountability in Ohio’s charter school system,” added Rep. Brennan. “I will continue to advocate for reforms that increase transparency, strengthen financial safeguards, and ensure that no charter school can operate without proper accountability to students, families, and taxpayers.”

Rep. Brennan reaffirmed his commitment to strong oversight of state education funding and continued efforts to prevent similar abuses in the future.

“This is about fairness and accountability,” concluded Rep. Brennan. “No one is above the law, and no one should be able to shield assets while owing a significant debt to the people of Ohio.”