Authorities have identified the suspect involved in an incident targeting Amy Acton, the Democratic candidate for Ohio governor, at the Canfield Fair. The suspect, Patrick Havas, 38, aggressively moved through the audience towards Acton, the Ohio State Highway Patrol confirmed.
Havas, armed with a Taser and two pistols, was detained at the Mahoning County Jail. He faces charges of disorderly conduct and two counts of assault. Acton is competing against Republican Vivek Ramaswamy in the upcoming gubernatorial election, a closely watched contest.
The altercation happened in the Mahoning County Democratic Party tent at one of Ohio’s major annual fairs. Havas, a resident of Canfield, Ohio, forced his way through the crowd while recording with his cellphone, according to the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office.
Voter records indicate Havas lacks party affiliation, although he participated in a GOP primary in 2016. His voter registration was updated on November 7, 2023, and he has a history of voting in general elections from 2014 to 2024.
Havas is a licensed nurse, with past legal encounters. In 2008, he was arrested for disorderly conduct and petty theft, with the latter charge dropped after a no-contest plea to disorderly conduct. He allegedly stole three movies from a Giant Eagle supermarket, leading to a suspended 30-day jail sentence. Traffic fines were also imposed on him in 2008 and 2011.
Details of the Canfield Fair Incident
Acton’s security team, consisting of Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers, swiftly handled the situation, detaining Havas. Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene stated that Havas collided with two older individuals on mobility scooters, causing them to fall. Although Havas possessed weapons, he did not brandish them during the confrontation.
The Sheriff’s Office will continue its investigation, coordinating with the County Prosecutor. They noted that Havas had two handguns and brass knuckles.
Acton’s campaign communications director, Addie Bullock, expressed gratitude for law enforcement’s quick response, adding that Acton is committed to confronting chaos and hate.
Republicans Respond to the Incident
Ramaswamy condemned the disruption at Acton’s campaign event, emphasizing the need for safe political engagement without violence. He expressed hope that no injuries occurred.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine released a statement on X, denouncing violence or threats at public events. He stressed that law enforcement is thoroughly investigating the case.
Ohio Republican Senator Jon Husted also reacted on X, relaying his and his wife’s concern over the attempted attack on Acton. He thanked law enforcement for their prompt action and advocated for rejecting such behavior.
The Mahoning County Republican Party shared disappointment over the disruption of Acton’s fair visit, expressing gratitude to law enforcement and condemning politically motivated violence.
Correction: An earlier version of this article mischaracterized Patrick Havas as a registered Republican. Current voter records show no party affiliation; he participated in a Republican primary in 2016.