A Cincinnati city councilwoman is facing intense backlash after a Facebook comment, allegedly from her account, appeared to support a violent downtown assault that went viral over the weekend. The comment, found under a video post showing two people being brutally beaten at the corner of Fourth and Elm Streets, reads: “They begged for that beat down! I am grateful for the whole story.”
The Facebook profile that made the remark appears to belong to Councilwoman Victoria Parks, as it matches details listed on her official biography with the City of Cincinnati. Her profile also shows past roles, including former Hamilton County commissioner and Chief of Staff to Commissioner Todd Portune.
The incident took place early Saturday morning and was captured on video, which shows several people attacking two individuals, including a woman who was knocked unconscious in the street. The footage quickly circulated on social media and drew national attention, prompting outrage from public officials and citizens alike.
Ohio State Representative Phil Plummer condemned Parks’ alleged comment, calling it “outrageous” and demanding her resignation. He also urged prosecutors to file hate crime charges against those involved in the attack. Numerous social media users echoed calls for Parks to step down, with some labeling her comment as racially inflammatory and inappropriate for an elected official.
Parks, a Democrat, has not issued a statement and has not responded to multiple requests for comment. A spokesperson for the Cincinnati City Council declined to speak on the matter, referring inquiries directly to Parks. City officials, including the Communications Director for the City Manager’s Office, have also refrained from commenting publicly.
The Fraternal Order of Police President, Ken Kober, criticized Parks’ response to the incident, saying it reflects a troubling political climate for both police and the public. He urged voters to bring about change in the upcoming November elections.
Councilwoman Parks had previously announced she would not seek reelection and plans to retire at the end of her current term.
