COLUMBUS, Ohio– Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced Saturday that he is calling in the Ohio National Guard to protect Ohio citizens.

At the request of Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther and Columbus Police Chief Thomas Quinlan, DeWine also ordered the Ohio State Highway Patrol to step in and help enforce the criminal laws in Columbus.

 DeWine says there is a relatively small but violent group of people who pose a specific and real threat to our law enforcement officers and the safety of the citizens of Columbus and Franklin County.

 “The majority of demonstrators want to be heard. They want to focus attention on the tragic death of George Floyd and other injustices. We always welcome such voices,” said DeWine.

Ginther added, “We are implementing a citywide curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. beginning tonight. We respect, value, and welcome the right to protest. This curfew is not intended to stifle peaceful protest but to protect our people.” 

Cleveland and Dayton also announced the implementation of curfews on Saturday.