Grubb, facing serious legal challenges, is charged with first-degree felonies in two separate cases: aggravated burglary and conspiracy to commit murder. Initially, he informed the court of his intention to replace his current defense attorney, Arica Underwood, with a new attorney hired by his mother. However, this change has not yet occurred. Recently, Grubb submitted multiple motions, including a request for the court to appoint a new attorney. He also sought funds to hire a private investigator to gather additional evidence, verify witness statements, and identify potential discrepancies in the prosecution’s case.
The presiding judge clarified that Ohio law does not permit hybrid representation, where a defendant represents themselves while also having legal counsel. Grubb’s first charge, aggravated burglary involving a deadly weapon, allegedly took place on November 9, 2024, with his arrest following in mid-December. The second charge involves conspiracy to commit murder, where he allegedly contacted a confidential informant to orchestrate the killing of a witness related to the burglary case. Prosecutors claim the informant was promised financial compensation and a weapon for the task.
Expressing dissatisfaction with his current legal representation, Grubb previously requested to represent himself until a new attorney could be secured. However, the judge denied this request, citing the complexities involved in self-representation. Until a new attorney is appointed, Underwood remains Grubb’s attorney of record.
Grubb’s bond is set at a combined $5.1 million. His motion highlights concerns about his current attorney’s communication and engagement with his case, further expressing doubts about the credibility of the confidential informant whose statements significantly impact the conspiracy charge. He argues there is a lack of independent corroboration for these statements, questioning the evidence’s reliability.
Moreover, Grubb challenges the decision to join the two cases, arguing it unfairly prejudices his defense by implying guilt in both charges. The judge has scheduled the next court appearance for May 1 at 1 p.m., continuing the ongoing legal proceedings.