Columbus City Council honors prosecutor Caitlyn Spar with resolution

Columbus City Council adopted Resolution 0137X‑2026 on a motion to recognize the life, service and legacy of prosecutor Caitlyn Spar, who served in the City Attorney’s Office since 2022.

Judge Zack Gwyn, who said he had the pleasure of seeing Spar practice in his courtroom, described her as an "incredible and dedicated public servant" who handled a docket of more than 300 cases with empathy and clear legal reasoning. "She displayed empathy for both defendants and victims," Gwyn said, recalling defendants who were moved to tears describing her compassion.

A representative of the Columbus Division of Police praised Spar’s partnership with officers and her commitment to victims, calling the circumstances of her death "difficult to comprehend" and urging the community to honor her work. City Attorney’s Office colleagues recounted Spar’s mentorship, weekly team gatherings, and service on prosecutorial rotations that earned her respect across the bench and bar.

The resolution, read into the record by Council Member Ross, traced Spar’s biography and service: born April 10, 1994; Miami University graduate (2016); Case Western Reserve University School of Law (2019); prosecutorial work in Athens, Ohio, and joining Columbus’s office in 2022. It noted colleagues’ memories of her professionalism, kindness and office leadership roles.

Council members observed a musical remembrance and gave the measure unanimous approval; the chamber offered a round of applause for Spar’s family and colleagues. The resolution directs the council’s formal recognition to remain part of the official city record.

Council staff indicated the ceremony and formal adoption were intended to provide public acknowledgement and condolence to Spar’s family and co‑workers. No legislative or budgetary action was attached to the resolution; it is a formal expression of the council’s appreciation and sympathy.