$5K Robbery Turns Terrifying as Amish Boy Held Hostage in Geauga County

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A man recently released from prison is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he and two other suspects invaded an Amish home and business in Middlefield Township on October 9, brutally assaulted the homeowner, and attempted to abduct his 8-year-old son before fleeing with $5,000 in stolen cash.

Bradford James Hosler Mugshot

Bradford James Hosler, 33, of Canton, was arrested and charged with kidnapping, aggravated robbery, and aggravated burglary. According to the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, Hosler and two unidentified accomplices entered the family’s residence and business, Custom Interiors Wood Products, located along Newcomb Road, at approximately 5:30 p.m.

Authorities said the suspects struck the Amish man in the head with a wooden crate, causing bleeding and swelling, then shocked both him and his son with a stun device. The suspects threatened to kill the man if he did not hand over more money, then tried to drag the boy into a stolen black Chevy pickup truck. The child managed to break free.

“This was a home invasion where the defendant brutally assaulted the victim and held his 8-year-old son hostage while ransacking the home and stealing over $5,000 in cash,” said Geauga County Prosecutor Jim Flaiz during a court hearing.

Hosler had been released from prison in August after serving time for felony domestic violence and felony breaking and entering. At the time of the attack, he was wearing a GPS ankle monitor which investigators say placed him at the scene. He was also identified by his unique facial tattoos and a witness who later confirmed his involvement. Authorities added that Hosler allegedly confessed to a third party who was interviewed by deputies.

“This crime in our county is particularly disturbing,” said Geauga County Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand at a Tuesday press conference. “The fact that these people, these bad guys, these slugs — who don’t have jobs — can come into our county and expect to victimize the Amish community is horrendous.”

Hosler’s criminal record includes prior burglary convictions and several other felony offenses, according to court filings from Stark County dating back to 2010. Judge Terri Stupica set bond at $750,000 during his October 14 arraignment at Chardon Municipal Court.

Hosler’s attorney, Leah Stevenson, said her client was forthcoming about his criminal history and has four children aged 6 to 15. She requested the court consider a reasonable bond, noting that Hosler had never missed a court appearance.

The two remaining suspects have not been publicly identified and remain at large. Authorities are continuing to investigate and anticipate additional charges.

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