Nathan Sorg

MOUNT BLANCHARD, Ohio (4-29-26) — Riverdale Local Schools K-12 Assistant Principal Nathan Sorg has resigned and faces an assault charge following a physical altercation with a student earlier this month.

Hancock County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the school, along State Route 37, on April 14, 2026, at approximately 2:59 p.m. after a reported assault.

The incident began when Sorg confronted a student over a suspected school policy violation involving the possible possession or transfer of a vape device. The student attempted to leave Sorg’s office and Sorg tried to stop them, leading to the physical altercation. The student sustained minor scratches to the neck, face and jaw area.

A search of the student’s belongings, including their locker, revealed no vape device or related paraphernalia.

Sorg (52) of Findlay, was formally charged by the Findlay Law Director’s Office with Assault, a first-degree misdemeanor, in violation of Ohio Revised Code 2903.13. He is awaiting an initial appearance in Findlay Municipal Court.

In Ohio, first-degree misdemeanor assault (simple assault) involves knowingly or recklessly causing physical harm to another, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Convictions become part of a permanent criminal record, though they may be eligible for sealing after one year.

Key Aspects of First-Degree Misdemeanor Assault in Ohio (ORC 2903.13):

  • Definition: Knowingly or recklessly causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another person.
  • Penalties: Up to 180 days (6 months) in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
  • Common Scenarios: Physical confrontations, including pushing, shoving, hitting, or spitting on someone.
  • Record Impact: Creates a permanent criminal record, which can impact employment and housing, but may be sealed, unlike many other violent crimes.
  • Defenses: Common defenses include self-defense, defending others, or lack of intent.

Note: If serious physical harm is caused, or if the victim is a police officer or other special category, the charges can be elevated to a felony.

The district said it promptly reported the incident to the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office and placed Sorg on administrative leave, directing him to remain off school grounds. The district said it fully cooperated with the sheriff’s office and conducted its own internal investigation.

Sorg’s resignation was accepted at a Riverdale Local Schools Board of Education meeting. The resignation comes just days after Sorg was placed on administrative leave.

Superintendent Greg Rossman statement, saying that the board has “policies and procedures, consistent with Ohio law, that address the use of restraint and seclusion of students” and expects employees to act consistently with the law. Rossman added that while he could not go into detail about the incident due to federal and state student privacy laws, student safety remains the district’s “top priority.”