CINCINNATI — Following a violent confrontation between white supremacists and residents near a historically-Black city in Ohio, a group of masked men carried rifles and shot guns around the neighborhood streets on Monday as they patrolled the area to keep the community safe.
The men were not interviewed but told local news station WCPO 9 they live in and around the Lincoln Heights.
Some residents said they felt the city was intentionally targeted and have reportedly expressed frustration with local law enforcement, telling the Sheriff’s office during a community meeting on Monday that they feel they have to take their safety into their own hands.
Other community members have raised questions about the police’ response during the clash between the community and the neo-Nazi protestors, as multiple videos from the scene showed police officers seemingly safeguarding the neo-Nazi protestors.
Rep. Cecil Thomas has also called into question whether existing state laws were violated and told local news station WLWT 5 existing legislation needs to be reevaluated to prevent hateful demonstrations from potentially turning violent.
“”If both sides are wielding weapons, one spark could easily cause a blood bath,” he told WLWT 5.
More on the Lincoln Heights response to neo-Nazi protestors and white supremacists in Ohio.
