Cincinnati Mayor Faces Backlash After Missing During Viral Assault Crisis
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval has faced significant backlash for taking a long-planned family vacation in Vancouver during a violent downtown assault that has sparked widespread public outrage. The brutal attack, which went viral on social media, left multiple injured, prompting calls for immediate action from city officials and residents. Pureval, a Democrat, reportedly decided to continue his vacation despite the incident, citing the need to celebrate his son’s kindergarten start and the city council’s upcoming session. However, the decision has drawn criticism, highlighting a perceived lack of leadership during the crisis.
Sen. Bernie Moreno, a Republican from Ohio, has weighed in on the situation, threatening to suspend federal funding to Cincinnati if city leaders fail to address the incident. He labeled the crisis a ‘heinous situation’ and criticized the mayor and other city leaders for their handling of the assault. Moreno announced plans to have federal agencies review Cincinnati’s funding and give the city officials a month to present a plan to protect civil rights. He emphasized his frustration with the city’s response, particularly the mayor’s absence during the crisis and the police chief’s blame of social media for not showing the whole story.
Meanwhile, city officials face additional scrutiny over their handling of the situation. City Councilwoman Victoria Parks came under fire for a Facebook comment that appeared to support the attack, leading to further criticism. Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge has been criticized for her silence on the investigation, despite announcing several arrests and charges. The ongoing case has raised questions about the city’s public safety measures and leadership response to the incident, with residents and officials demanding accountability and swift action.