Man pleads not guilty to misdemeanor charges in Ohio fair incident involving Amy Acton
Key Points:
- Patrick Havas, accused of knocking down an elderly couple while trying to confront Ohio gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton, pleaded not guilty to assault, disorderly conduct, and inducing panic charges in a Mahoning County court hearing.
- The incident occurred at the Canfield Fair when Havas allegedly pushed through a crowd, causing two elderly individuals to fall; state troopers found weapons on Havas but he did not brandish them during the event.
- A $5,000 cash surety bond was set for Havas, with conditions including surrendering weapons, no contact with Acton or the elderly couple, and no media communication; prosecutors declined felony charges citing lack of physical contact with Acton and legal open-carry firearm possession.
- Video evidence from Havas’ phone showed him approaching Acton and being stopped by security but did not support more serious charges, according to Mahoning County Prosecutor Lynn Maro.
- Acton described the day as difficult but reaffirmed her commitment to her campaign, while witnesses confirmed the aggressive nature of Havas’ actions and noted Acton’s immediate care for the injured elderly individuals.