Authorities have identified Patrick Havas, aged 38, as the suspect involved in an incident at Amy Acton’s campaign event at the Canfield Fair. During this event, Havas was said to have charged at Acton, a Democratic candidate for Ohio governor. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Havas knocked over several audience members as he aggressively pushed his way through the crowd. He was found with a Taser and two pistols. Havas is currently held at the Mahoning County Jail and is charged with disorderly conduct and two counts of assault.
The gubernatorial race in Ohio, where Acton faces Republican Vivek Ramaswamy, is one of the nation’s closely monitored contests. Newsweek reported attempts to reach Acton’s campaign, Ohio State Highway Patrol, and Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office for comments outside business hours.
The incident happened within the Mahoning County Democratic Party tent at one of Ohio’s largest annual fairs. According to the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office, Havas entered the tent, began pushing through the crowd while recording with his cellphone. Voter records reviewed by Newsweek confirmed Havas is not affiliated with a political party, although he voted in a GOP primary in 2016.
Recent voter registration records show that Havas updated his registration on November 7, 2023. He participated in general elections for several years, including 2024. Havas is also noted as a licensed nurse based on records reviewed by Newsweek.
Havas faced legal issues previously, including charges of disorderly conduct and petty theft in 2008. While the theft charges were dismissed after a no-contest plea to disorderly conduct, he received a 30-day suspended jail sentence. He was also fined for traffic violations in 2008 and 2011.
What Happened at Canfield Fair?
Acton’s security, consisting of Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers, apprehended Havas during the incident, as reported by the sheriff’s office. Mahoning County Sheriff Jerry Greene informed CBS News that Havas allegedly knocked down two elderly persons on mobility scooters as he advanced. Despite being armed, Havas did not display his weapons during the encounter, according to the sheriff’s office.
The office confirmed ongoing investigations and plans to file charges after discussions with the County Prosecutor. The Ohio State Highway Patrol will also conduct a threat assessment.
Addie Bullock, communications director for Acton’s campaign, expressed appreciation for law enforcement’s rapid response, and hopes for swift recovery of the injured. Acton remains committed to confronting divisive attitudes.
Republicans Condemn Incident
Her opponent, Vivek Ramaswamy, strongly condemned the incident as unacceptable. Ramaswamy’s communications director emphasized the necessity for candidates to engage voters without fears of violence. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine stated online that violence at political events is unacceptable, confirming a thorough investigation by the authorities.
Ohio Republican Senator Jon Husted echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the quick action of law enforcement. The Mahoning County Republican Party expressed disappointment regarding the disruption and stressed their disapproval of politically-motivated violence.
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