Cincinnati, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval, and Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge announced earlier this week that the state will be stepping in to provide additional manpower to support the Cincinnati Police Department (CPD) following growing concerns from community members about recent acts of violence.
The added support comes in response to local requests for help and will involve a focused collaboration with the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP).
Expanded Role for the Ohio State Highway Patrol
OSHP troopers will concentrate heavily on traffic enforcement, giving Cincinnati police officers the opportunity to focus on more pressing crime investigations and responses. At the same time, OSHP’s Aviation Unit will assist local efforts by providing aerial support for violent crime reduction, criminal suspect searches, and managing vehicle pursuits, which often pose dangers to both officers and the public.
Governor DeWine emphasized that this kind of partnership has been proven effective elsewhere.
“Ohio essentially has a package of law enforcement support services the state can provide in times when local authorities could use some additional help,” said Governor DeWine. “We’ve done this in other cities, and it has made a big difference.”
City Leaders Welcome the Support
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval expressed gratitude for the state’s decision to intervene at such a critical time.
“I want to express my deep appreciation to Governor DeWine for his continued leadership and his assistance on our most important responsibility as a government,” said Mayor Pureval. “Combatting violence is our most urgent challenge, and this coordination and support from the State of Ohio will assist our local law enforcement in ensuring the safety of all our residents. I am extremely proud of our police officers for their diligence and exceptional service – and we will continue to be unrelenting in our support of their work.”
Chief Teresa Theetge also highlighted the benefits of this partnership, particularly the use of the Aviation Unit.
“Our partnership with the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the use of their Aviation Unit have been instrumental in recent CPD initiatives,” said Chief Theetge. “I am extremely grateful to Governor DeWine for offering state resources for the safety of our communities.”
Previous State-Supported Initiatives
This is not the first time the state has provided such assistance. Similar initiatives have been carried out in Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Youngstown, and Toledo. These efforts have led to significant outcomes, including felony arrests, the seizure of illegal firearms, the recovery of stolen vehicles, and the confiscation of illegal drugs.
Additional Support Services Offered
Governor DeWine also noted that Cincinnati would have access to further assistance if required. Potential resources include support from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction and the Ohio Department of Youth Services to help locate individuals failing to comply with parole or post-release conditions. Additional tools could include evidence analysis and intelligence gathering through the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center, as well as targeted enforcement by the Ohio Investigative Unit at liquor establishments known for illegal sales, drug trafficking, or prostitution.
With these combined efforts, state and local leaders aim to reduce violence in Cincinnati while reinforcing safety for residents across the community.
