In Ohio, Tres Genco, a self-proclaimed ‘incel,’ resides only two blocks from Ohio State University, one of his planned targets for a mass shooting. The Justice Department has filed a motion to evict him from this location, citing safety concerns.
Justice Department’s Concerns
The government demanded that Genco live more than two miles from any Ohio university and have his residence approved by probation officers. Additionally, he should be forbidden from entering any university grounds without prior approval. Computer monitoring on Genco’s devices is also suggested by the government.
Ohio State University supports these restrictions, emphasizing student safety. A spokesperson for OSU stated that they stand by the Justice Department’s request.
Genco’s Background
From Hillsboro, Ohio, Genco was arrested in 2021 and, in 2022, pleaded guilty to attempting a hate crime. He was sentenced to six years in prison, followed by supervised probation for five years. Court documents reveal that Genco had planned to attack Ohio State University, specifically targeting a sorority there. Items found with him included a bulletproof vest, skull mask, and firearm magazines.
The term ‘incel’ refers to ‘involuntary celibate’ men sharing misogynistic views. Genco’s writings expressed a desire to harm women out of resentment.
Request for Social Restrictions
The Justice Department also seeks to restrict Genco’s associations. He is asked to avoid contact with Thomas Develin, a former cellmate imprisoned for producing and selling untraceable firearms known as ‘ghost guns.’ Develin also faces charges for threats towards a Jewish school.
Genco’s Legal Response
Genco’s public defenders, while agreeing to monitoring and the restriction regarding Develin, oppose the residency and campus restrictions. They argue such limitations could destabilize Genco financially and mentally, particularly as he resides in a court-approved apartment near OSU, assisted by Develin’s parents.
Genco’s lawyers argue that these post-release terms should have been established earlier. They claim that these restrictions could place a more severe stigma on Genco than on registered sex offenders. His legal team highlights his efforts towards rehabilitation and lack of violations while staying in a halfway house earlier.
Pending Decision
The court is yet to make a ruling on the pending motions regarding Genco’s residence and restrictions, according to available records reviewed by the media.