MIDDLETOWN, Ohio — Ohio Rep. Candice Keller has been advised to stay at home by the Ohio House’s security team because she has received threats, both in Columbus and at her Middletown home, she said today.
The Middletown Republican state lawmaker told the Journal-News that she has been advised “that I not leave my house.” The Ohio House has canceled her appointments for the week, she said. The Middletown Division of Police went to her home this morning to take a threat report, according to the department.
The threats come after Keller posted to her personal Facebook page comments that blame for the Dayton shootings should be placed on the breakdown of the traditional family, gay marriage, violent video games, professional athletes who protest the American flag, recreational marijuana and “snowflakes, who can’t accept a duly-elected President.”
Police say suspected gunman Connor Betts, 24, allegedly killed nine people and wounded dozens of others just after 1 a.m. Sunday outside an Oregon District establishment.
Keller confirmed on Sunday she posted something to her Facebook page, but when a reporter read the entire statement, she said it sounded like part of her posting but couldn’t be sure if it had been altered.
“This should not be about politics. We should come together as a community for moving together, grieving together, healing together,” said Hamilton Vice Mayor Michael V. Ryan.
Butler County Republican Party Chairman Todd Hall agreed that “this is the time for prayer and reflection.”
“Some want to politicize these events, and I cannot condone such comment and behavior,” he said.
