COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Columbus Division of Police is investigating a neo-Nazi demonstration that was held in the Short North Arts District on Saturday.
Video sent to 10TV shows around 10 people wearing black pants, black shirts, black head coverings and a red mask covering their mouths marching down North High Street. Three of the individuals were carrying flags with swastikas.
Sgt. Joseph Albert told 10TV over the weekend there was no use of force by police once they arrived. He said a citizen might have used pepper spray on the group before police arrived.
Police confirmed on Monday that in the evidence review was a video that allegedly showed pepper spray being deployed by the apparent neo-Nazis. Police said they have not established probable cause to make any arrests as of now.
According to police, officers will continue to review available videos and encourage anyone in the community to submit any videos, statements or evidence.
A QR code was submitted for community members wanting to share evidence with investigators. Anyone with additional information can contact the police at 614-645-4474 or Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-645-8477 (TIPS).
“The Constitution protects First Amendment activity, no matter how hateful,” said Columbus Division of Police Chief Elaine Bryant. “We are bound by the law in enforcement of such activity. No one in our community should experience intimidation or harassment. We will continue to strive to make Columbus a city where all residents feel welcome and safe.”
City Attorney Zach Klein issued a statement on the march to his social media and condemned those involved.
"Displays of neo-Nazi hate have no home in Columbus. This is not who we are, and we will not tolerate or normalize this disgusting ideology in any form," Klein said in part.
Mayor Andrew Ginther said the city "stands squarely against hatred and bigotry."
"Together, we reject the cowardly display reported in the Short North earlier today, and we will continue to monitor the situation in partnership with the Columbus Division of Police to ensure the safety and security of our city," Ginther said in a statement on X.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine also issued the following statement Saturday night:
"We will not tolerate hate in Ohio. Neo-Nazis -- their faces hidden behind red masks -- roamed streets in Columbus today, carrying Nazi flags and spewing vile and racist speech against people of color and Jews. There were reports that they were also espousing white power sentiments. There is no place in the State for hate, bigotry, antisemitism, or violence, and we must denounce it wherever we see it."