Erica Grove left a Warren County courtroom in handcuffs Wednesday, Sept. 23, after Judge Robert Peeler convicted her on two counts of gross sexual imposition and two counts of child endangering.

Peeler acquitted Grove on four rape charges, one count of corrupting another with drugs and three additional counts of gross sexual imposition. He ruled the state had not proved those charges beyond a reasonable doubt, finding the evidence outside of text messages insufficient.

"These text messages were gross and repulsive. These messages ignite a visceral urge to condemn the defendant for the perverse conversations in what she engaged, but it is fundamental a civilized society is not punished for thoughts alone," Peeler said while reading his verdict, according to WCPO.

Grove, 43, of South Lebanon, had opted for a bench trial rather than a jury. She showed some of the only emotion seen during the proceedings, catching her breath as the counts were read aloud, WCPO reported.

The case centered on thousands of graphic text messages between Grove and her former partner, Tony McCollister, about a child. Assistant Warren County Prosecutor Julie Kraft argued during closing arguments that the messages documented grooming and sexual abuse. Defense attorney Charlie Rittgers countered that the texts were fantasy, not reality, as reported by WLWT.

Grove and McCollister were originally indicted on 24 counts. Before the bench trial began, eight counts involving nude material of a child were dismissed. Grove had also pleaded guilty on Aug. 24 to four counts of sexual conduct with animals, according to Fox 19.

The investigation began after Google submitted a tip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) about explicit material connected to McCollister's IP address. McCollister was arrested in December 2025, and Grove was arrested shortly after. Both were held on $250,000 bond.

During the trial, Peeler had openly questioned the prosecution's case. He pressed prosecutors, asking what evidence they had beyond the text messages, and said he was "extremely skeptical" the state had proved the texts were truthful, according to WLWT's earlier trial coverage.

Under Ohio's Marci's Law, sentencing cannot proceed immediately. A sentencing date has not been set. Peeler said he does not need a pre-sentence investigation, stating he has heard and seen enough. Grove is being held by the Warren County Sheriff's Office in the meantime.

Neighbors who wore pink in support of the young victim told WCPO they were relieved Grove would not be walking around the neighborhood free.

McCollister's bench trial before Peeler is scheduled to begin Monday, Sept. 28.