Editor’s Note: The Union County Prosecutors Office issued the following release Thursday, Oct. 31, concerning a case the office handled that lead to a conviction of Bellefontaine resident Tobias J. Hilz, 41, for rape and other crimes. Former Logan County Common Pleas Court Judge Mark O’Connor sentenced Hilz in Union County Common Pleas Court.
MARYSVILLE — Tobias Johann Hilz, 41, of Bellefontaine, was sentenced to an indefinite prison term of 27 to 31 years after pleading guilty to multiple counts of rape, strangulation, and extortion. Hilz coerced his ex-girlfriend into unwanted sexual acts and extorted money from her, using threats to contact child protective services and publicly release intimate photos and videos he had taken of her. He also threatened to destroy her belongings unless she complied with his demands.
In addition to sexual violence, Hilz physically assaulted the woman, causing visible injuries from strangulation. Critical evidence in the case included a series of letters and text messages written by Hilz, which he intended as a confession and a commitment to stop contact with the victim. In these messages, Hilz admitted to “threatening, manipulating, blackmailing, and instilling fear” to stay close to the victim, despite her “begging and crying for her freedom.” His confession also revealed his anger and intent to punish her for leaving him, including threats to have her children removed from her care.
The investigation was conducted by the Richwood Village Police Department. Judge Mark O’Connor sentenced Hilz to prison, ordered restitution of $3,200, and mandated that he register as a Tier III sex offender upon his release.
Hilz’s conduct was abhorrent and highlights the darkest forms of power and control. Through calculated manipulation, threats, and violent acts, Hilz sought to dominate and terrorize his victim, depriving her of the freedom, safety, and dignity that every individual deserves. His use of threats and intimidation, coupled with physical abuse, is a chilling reminder of the lengths some individuals will go to exert control over another human.
No one should ever feel compelled to live in fear or forced to make impossible choices to protect themselves or their loved ones from harm. The survivor showed immense bravery by coming forward, providing the evidence needed to hold her abuser accountable. Her courage, along with the diligent work of the Richwood Village Police Department, has ensured that justice was served.
Our office remains steadfast in our commitment to protecting victims of abuse and holding people who commit such vile acts accountable. Cases like this reinforce our resolve to prosecute abusers who seek to exert power and control over others to the fullest extent of the law. This case reflects our determination to keep our community safe and send a clear message: this behavior will never be tolerated.