Oakwood Attorney in ICU, Trial in Doubt After Stalking & Voyeurism Charges

An Ohio attorney is in intensive care as he faces serious criminal charges. Matthew Currie, of Oakwood, is currently hospitalized, according to his attorney, Ryan Nelson, who stated this following a recent court hearing.

Legal Challenges and Health Concerns

Currie was indicted by a county grand jury on January 6th, facing a total of 91 counts. These include 49 counts related to the illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material or performance, 40 counts of voyeurism, and two counts of unauthorized use of computer property. The charges stem from an investigation that began in October 2024, after a family member discovered concerning material on his cellphone and reported it to the Oakwood Public Safety Department.

Did You Know? The investigation revealed allegations that Currie stalked a 17-year-old student and surreptitiously photographed and videotaped her in her bedroom.

Nelson has raised concerns about Currie’s ability to stand trial, citing a diagnosis of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare and terminal neurological condition. He stated that Currie was diagnosed with PSP in 2020. The condition, often initially mistaken for Parkinson’s disease, affects movement, balance, speech, and cognitive function, typically leading to a need for assisted care within three to four years and ultimately resulting in death within six to nine years.

Defense Arguments

Nelson argued in a motion for a competency evaluation that, due to his condition, Currie is currently unable to effectively communicate with counsel or participate in his defense. He expressed uncertainty about the purpose of continuing legal proceedings given Currie’s declining health. Nelson also unsuccessfully attempted to secure a modification to Currie’s bail conditions to allow him to return to an assisted living facility in Michigan, near his family.

Expert Insight: The intersection of serious criminal charges and a rapidly progressing terminal illness presents a complex legal and ethical challenge. The ability to mount a robust defense is fundamentally linked to a defendant’s capacity to understand the proceedings and assist in their own representation.

According to Montgomery County Prosecutor Mat Heck Jr., the investigation revealed that after the initial target, a 17-year-old, left for college, Currie allegedly continued to photograph and record other women, including a family member of the teen and a neighbor.

Looking Ahead

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for March 18th. It remains uncertain whether Currie will be able to appear. If his condition continues to deteriorate, a judge could potentially rule him incompetent to stand trial, which would likely halt the proceedings. Alternatively, the prosecution could proceed, potentially presenting evidence and arguments without full participation from the defendant. A plea agreement remains a possible outcome, though its feasibility is complicated by the reported severity of Currie’s health issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What charges is Matthew Currie facing?

Currie is facing 49 counts of illegal use of a minor in a nudity-oriented material or performance, 40 counts of voyeurism, and two counts of unauthorized use of a computer, cable or telecommunication property.

When was Matthew Currie indicted?

Currie was indicted on January 6th by a county grand jury.

What medical condition has Matthew Currie been diagnosed with?

Currie has been diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare and terminal neurological condition.

How might Currie’s health impact the legal proceedings?