Ron Welch
Muskingum County Prosecutor
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Friday, July 11, 2025
Cody Friend Convicted on 12 Counts of Child Sexual Assault Following Jury Trial
After a three-day jury trial, a Muskingum County jury found Cody Friend guilty of 12 counts of sexual assault against three children. The charges included eleven counts of rape, all first-degree felonies, and one count of gross sexual imposition, a third-degree felony. All victims were under the age of 18 when the crimes happened, which occurred at various residences in Muskingum County from 2003 to 2011.
Despite the passage of more than a decade, the victims bravely came forward in 2024, and law enforcement launched an investigation into the historical abuse. The jury heard detailed testimony from each of the three survivors, who described the trauma they endured and the lifelong impacts of the abuse.
The jury deliberated for approximately eight hours before returning guilty verdicts on all but one count.
One victim, who has suffered through years of drug addiction because of the abuse stated “The prosecutor’s office used to be a place for me to fear; however, after this process I have regained faith in our judicial system. I received support, understanding, and most importantly justice. The prosecutors worked hard and fought for me and my family. I will be forever grateful. I finally feel free.”
Another victim noted that it felt like a huge weight had been lifted off her chest, “The Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office took on my case and provided support through everything. I believe they were empathetic to my emotional state and situation, and I am grateful to everyone involved for their assistance in helping me achieve justice. They served as my foundation when I felt I had nothing to stand on, never failing to support me and maintaining my hope.”
The third victim explained, “I was afraid to talk about what happened at first but am thankful for the support from the prosecutor’s office and am glad I went through with it.”
Others involved in the case, Detective Brady Hittle from the Muskingum County Sherrif’s Office and the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office, expressed gratitude to the jurors for bringing justice to the victims.
“Cases involving delayed disclosure of childhood sexual abuse are some of the most difficult to prosecute,” said Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch. “Victims often remain silent for years—sometimes decades—because of fear, shame, confusion, or manipulation by the abuser. When they do find the courage to speak, they often do so without physical evidence or witnesses. That’s why the jury’s ability to understand the dynamics of child sexual abuse and the reality of delayed disclosure is absolutely critical.”
Prosecutor Welch praised the courage of the survivors for their willingness to testify and relive deeply painful experiences. “These individuals not only spoke their truth—they ensured this predator can never harm another child.”
Friend will be sentenced at a later date at which time the State will be asking for a maximum sentence.
Prosecutor Ron Welch and Assistant Prosecutor Amy Otto represented the State of Ohio. The defendant was represented by Attorney Scott Wood from Lancaster.
###
Follow the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office on Facebook for the most current and complete information.
