On July 13, the Ohio inspector general issued a report of investigation after looking into a referral from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board (COS) alleging inspector John M. Hobbs III, a Toledo city councilman, was stopping at locations in his state-issued vehicle during his State of Ohio work time that were unrelated to his COS job responsibilities.
Mr. Hobbs’ primary job duty is to perform inspections of all cosmetology and barber licensed facilities in his assigned region, consisting of 28 counties in northwest Ohio. He is responsible for inspecting barber shops, cosmetology salons, tanning facilities, nail/manicuring facilities and aesthetics facilities.
Upon receiving the complaint, investigators learned Mr. Hobbs had a second job working as a basketball coach at Bowsher High School in Toledo.
Investigators obtained and reviewed COS mobile location data, inspection reports, time sheets and records from Mr. Hobbs’ secondary employment.
The inspector general found reasonable cause to believe the employee violated cosmetology board policies by engaging in a personal business for profit while working as a basketball coach during times he reported working as an inspector for Ohio.
The report of investigation contains recommendations to the COS to strengthen and clarify existing board policies. The report has been sent to the Columbus prosecuting attorney, Toledo prosecutor’s office and the Ohio Ethics Commission for consideration.
