Tiffin woman admits assaulting rescue worker

A Tiffin woman admitted Wednesday morning she assaulted a crew member of Tiffin Fire Rescue Division last year. Jodi R. Dewald, 50, pleaded guilty to a charge of assault, a fourth-degree felony, during a hearing in Seneca County Common Pleas Court Judge Michael Kelbley's courtroom. According to court records, Dewald was intoxicated, and an ambulance was called to take her to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital Sept. 22. She started thrashing around in the ambulance, and a police officer witnessed her punch the rescue crew member at least three times, they state. Hospital staff had to sedate Dewald because she was so vulgar and violent, according to court records. Kelbley followed the joint recommendation and sentenced Dewald to three years of community control. Dewald must complete substance abuse rehabilitation and/or treatment as determined necessary by Adult Parole Authority and/or any mental health professional. She also must undergo a substance abuse assessment through Rigel Recovery Services, complete all recommended treatments and undergo random drug and/or alcohol urinalysis as directed by APA. Prior to sentencing, Dewald said she was apologetic for what had taken place. She said it was a learning experience, and she wanted to make things better. Dewald's attorney, John Kahler, said Dewald has an alcohol issue, which was the basis of the assault. Dewald didn't remember what happened but didn't deny her actions, he said.