Boardman area contractor convicted of stealing from clients fails to show for probation violation hearing

LISBON -- A Boardman area contractor convicted in 2024 of stealing from clients was scheduled for a probation violation hearing in three separate cases Friday, but failed to show up.

Columbiana County Common Pleas Court Judge Scott Washam issued a bench warrant for John P. Bartos, 43, Youngstown, when he didn't arrive for the 10:30 a.m. hearing.

His defense attorney, Frank Cassese, who was present, filed a motion shortly before the scheduled time of the hearing to withdraw from the case, citing irreconcilable differences with his client.

The prosecution had filed a motion alleging probation violations by Bartos.

In May 2024, Bartos was sentenced to 90 days in jail as part of his three years of community control for three counts of theft.

Bartos had been accused of taking money from three clients and failing to do the work in Columbiana County. He also faced similar charges in other counties.