On Thursday, Vice President JD Vance denounced the recent violent attack in Cincinnati, calling the incident ‘disgusting’ and emphasizing the link between the event and the city’s police staffing challenges. Speaking on the Ruthless Podcast, Vance criticized the city’s lack of officers during the attack, which he attributed to the impact of the ‘Defund the Police’ movement. He argued that the movement has discouraged both current and veteran officers from encouraging their relatives to enter the profession, leaving departments understaffed and vulnerable.
Vance highlighted the need for states and cities to address the law enforcement recruitment crisis, urging local governments to support officers and attract new talent to the profession. He pointed to the experiences of officers, including heartbreaking stories of a fourth or fifth-generation cop who advises their children not to pursue law enforcement due to the risks and threats they face. Vance’s comments followed six people charged in last weekend’s brutal street beating in Cincinnati, as authorities continue to hunt for the remaining suspects.
Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge stated that six individuals had now been charged with felonious assault and aggravated rioting, with the city’s fugitive apprehension unit working to locate the three remaining suspects. Vance called on city leaders to move past short-term political tensions and focus on addressing the staffing crisis, which he claims has left major cities like Cincinnati with significant gaps in their police forces. He emphasized the importance of supporting local cops to ensure public safety and prevent future incidents.
As the investigation continues, the incident has sparked renewed debate over police funding and staffing, with Vance’s comments reflecting a broader conservative stance on law enforcement reform. The case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by cities in maintaining public order and ensuring officer safety in the wake of nationwide protests and policy shifts.