SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — Mayor of Springfield Rob Rue issued a formal proclamation Thursday that allows him temporary emergency powers amid public safety concerns. 

What You Need To Know

  • The decision to issue the proclamation came after the city received more than 30 bomb threats — aimed toward schools, hospitals and city buildings — in response to false comments from politicians that Haitian immigrants were stealing and eating pets

  • The proclamation will allow the city to respond more quickly to emergency situations, such as civil unrest, cyber threats and potential acts of violence, Rue's office said in a release

  • This week, DeWine sent state troopers to Springfield to patrol schools and other areas to enhance safety measures

The decision to issue the proclamation came after the city received more than 30 bomb threats — aimed toward schools, hospitals and city buildings — in response to false claims from politicians that Haitian immigrants were stealing and eating pets. 

“Ensuring the safety of Springfield’s residents is our top priority,” Rue said in a statement. “We are addressing these threats with the seriousness they warrant and are taking immediate steps to ensure the security of both our community and our employees. Our commitment to preventing harm is unwavering.” 

The proclamation will allow the city to respond more quickly to emergency situations, such as civil unrest, cyber threats and potential acts of violence, Rue's office said in a release. The proclamation will remain in effect until officials determine that public safety risks have subsided. 

“I have no doubt that Springfield will stand together in the face of these challenges. I encourage everyone to look out for one another with care and compassion as we work to keep our community safe and strong," Rue said in a statement. 

The comments were perpetuated by former President Donald Trump and Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance, putting a national spotlight on the city. Trump also used the city as an example during his first presidential debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. 

Officials have confirmed to Spectrum News that the comments are false, and that there are no reports to back up the claims. 

Additionally, Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, condemned the comments, saying they are not legitimate. This week, DeWine sent state troopers to Springfield to patrol schools and other areas to enhance safety measures. 

“Many of these threats are coming in from overseas, made by those who want to fuel the current discord surrounding Springfield. We cannot let the bad guys win,” said DeWine in a news release earlier this week. “We must take every threat seriously, but children deserve to be in school, and parents deserve to know that their kids are safe. The added security will help ease some of the fears caused by these hoaxes.”