Ohio State Police to Protect Schools in Springfield Amid Political Furor over Haitian Migrants
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced on Monday that Ohio state police will be deployed to protect schools in Springfield, a city at the center of a political controversy surrounding Haitian migrants. This decision comes after former President Donald Trump falsely claimed that Haitian immigrants were eating pets, sparking outrage and threats in the community.
Governor DeWine, a Republican, has denounced these debunked rumors and emphasized that there is no evidence to support them. He stated at a news conference in Springfield that dozens of members from the Ohio State Highway Patrol will be stationed in city schools starting Tuesday. Their role will involve sweeping each building every morning before faculty and students arrive. Additionally, security cameras have been strategically placed throughout the city, and a bomb-sniffing dog will be available round-the-clock.
The need for increased security measures arose after bomb threats forced Springfield City Hall, several schools, and state motor vehicle offices to evacuate last week. Governor DeWine revealed that there were at least 33 separate bomb threats made recently, all of which turned out to be hoaxes. While some of these threats originated from overseas sources, he declined to disclose the specific country involved.
Andy Wilson, director of the Ohio Department of Public Safety expressed concern about those responsible for spreading discord within their community through such actions. He emphasized the importance of providing essential services while ensuring citizens’ safety.
Springfield has faced intense scrutiny following false claims made by Trump during his presidential campaign regarding Haitian immigrants consuming domestic pets and waterfowl. President Joe Biden condemned these lies during his appearance at the National HBCU Week Conference in Philadelphia on Monday.
In response to safety concerns resulting from recent threats, Springfield officials decided to cancel their annual celebration called CultureFest which promotes diversity and cultural appreciation within the community. Two colleges in Springfield also held virtual classes due to targeted threats towards members of the Haitian Community.
Despite this tense atmosphere surrounding immigration issues in Springfield lately, some individuals like Bill Teager and Paul Gomia have shown support for local businesses owned by Haitians. Thousands of Haitian immigrants have settled in this predominantly white city over recent years due to job opportunities provided by struggling factories and warehouses seeking workers.
Governor DeWine acknowledged challenges faced by Springfield but highlighted its progress as a growing city with improving conditions compared to previous years. He refrained from criticizing Trump directly but noted that legal protections exist for Haitians under federal programs due to unsafe conditions prevailing in Haiti.
DeWine urged an end to hate speech targeting immigrants while emphasizing their contributions as hardworking individuals who value education and care about their families’ well-being.