28-02-2025
Evendale investigation is a start, but tougher laws needed against armed threats
On Feb. 7, a disturbing event unfolded in Lincoln Heights, a historically Black neighborhood in our community. Armed, masked neo-Nazis marched through the area, spewing hate speech and intimidating residents. Their actions were not just an act of hate but a stark failure of the very institutions meant to protect us. As the situation developed, many of my constituents, along with others across the region, questioned why the police failed to intervene despite multiple opportunities.
As more details emerged, reports from the Lockland Local School District revealed that a police officer from the jurisdiction of Evendale was seen meeting with these neo-Nazis while they loaded weapons and organized in their U-Haul. This revelation further eroded the trust between the community and law enforcement. For many in Lincoln Heights, this event symbolized the failure of the police to protect them, prompting some residents to arm themselves to ensure their safety.
The message was clear: The community could no longer rely on the police as their first and last line of defense.
More: Live: Hamilton County commissioners hope to get answers Tuesday about neo-Nazi rally
In light of this, I commend the Evendale Police Department for taking a significant step toward accountability. By hiring an independent team to review the police actions during this incident, the department is acknowledging the concerns of the community and working to rebuild the trust that was lost. This team will not only review the events but will also assess whether more could have been done to prevent the situation or confirm that the officers acted as they should have. Additionally, the team will provide recommendations on how law enforcement can better navigate an ever-evolving political and social landscape.
As a state representative and the ranking member of the Public Safety Committee, my priority is to ensure safety and order within all of our communities. What transpired in Lincoln Heights was a community on edge, feeling abandoned by the very institution designed to protect them. I am grateful that the Evendale Police Department has recognized the gravity of this situation and taken the necessary steps to address it. Regardless of the outcome of the investigation, I hope that this marks a crucial first step in healing the fractured trust.
More: My grandfather helped build Lincoln Heights. Now it's our turn to protect it. | Opinion
However, this cannot be the end of the conversation. The most important element of law enforcement is the relationship of trust it shares with the community. When that trust erodes, it harms not only the agency but the entire community. If we fail to act, we risk perpetuating a dangerous cycle of mistrust that undermines public safety.
That is why I am introducing legislation aimed at preventing incidents like this from happening again. Under my proposal, anyone who enters a community armed and masked will immediately be subject to law enforcement intervention. If an individual enters a community with the intent to intimidate or cause harm, law enforcement must have the authority to act swiftly to remove them. This is not an attack on the Second Amendment or the right to protest; it is a necessary measure to prevent armed intimidation and protect public safety.
We cannot allow masked individuals to march into our neighborhoods with weapons, spreading fear and chaos. The safety of the public must come first. This legislation will ensure that communities are protected and that law enforcement has the tools to act when necessary. We must make it clear: The right to intimidate or incite violence will always be secondary to ensuring safety and peace.
More: Man ticketed for scattering 'hate flyers' in Lincoln Heights, accused of taking peace flag
I commend the Evendale Police Department for their commitment to transparency and accountability. By taking this crucial step, they have shown a willingness to confront difficult questions and rebuild trust. However, the work is far from over. I will continue to push for legislation that strengthens our communities, supports law enforcement, and prioritizes the safety of all citizens. Together, we can ensure that what happened on Feb. 7 never happens again.
State Rep. Cecil Thomas is currently serving his second term in the Ohio House of Representatives. He represents the 25th House District, which encompasses part of Hamilton County.
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: My legislation will ensure law enforcement stops masked armed threats
