Southeast Ohio Regional Jail board members left a closed-door meeting yesterday without taking any action against the warden charged with a fifth-degree felony who now sits on paid administrative leave.

Warden William “Jeff” Gillespie was charged Friday with unauthorized use of computers for allegedly showing a female jail employee adult pornography on his office computer Jan. 24. Gillespie, who makes a $54,075 salary, has been on paid administrative leave since Jan. 31.

Gillespie’s attorney, John Wells, said the warden denies the criminal charge and will plead not guilty at his court appearance tomorrow.

“We’re denying any fact that should result in a criminal conviction, or, in my opinion, a termination (of his employment at the jail),” Wells said.

Jill Thompson, Athens County auditor and president of the jail’s board, left the closed-door executive session for legal concerns.

“I think it is very inappropriate to discuss an open investigation in executive session,” Thompson said later. She was not required to be present or listen to the discussion, said Garry Hunter, Athens City law director and legal counsel for the board.

Thompson also added that her departure had nothing to do with her personal opinion of Gillespie’s situation, but she hopes the board will make a decision as soon as possible so “we do not continue to pay someone who will not continue at this facility.”

“To my knowledge, these allegations have never been denied … I don’t think he should be continued as a warden, and I don’t see any point of delaying (a decision to terminate Gillespie),” Thompson said.

Gillespie declined to comment on Thompson’s statement.