A nonprofit representing the Haitian community of Springfield, Ohio, has taken legal action against former President Donald Trump and U.S. Senator JD Vance. The Haitian Bridge Alliance filed criminal charges citing the chaos and threats experienced by the city since Trump's false claims about legal immigrants during a presidential debate.
The charges include disrupting public services, making false alarms, telecommunications harassment, aggravated menacing, and complicity. The organization's attorney emphasized the intent behind the actions of Trump and Vance, highlighting the impact on the community.
More than 30 bomb threats targeted government buildings and schools in Springfield, leading to closures and heightened security measures. Haitian residents expressed fear for their safety as public vitriol escalated, with even the Mayor receiving death threats.
The legal filing seeks to hold Trump and Vance accountable for their actions, emphasizing that no one should be above the law. The attorney argued that the immunity granted to ex-presidents does not apply in this case, as Trump is currently a private citizen.
The affidavit outlines specific allegations against Trump and Vance, including disrupting public services, making false alarms, committing telecommunications harassment, and aggravated menacing. The charges also include violations related to complicity in spreading false information.
The legal proceedings underscore the impact of misinformation and false claims on a community, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice. The case will now be reviewed by the Clark County Municipal Court to determine the next steps in the legal process.