COLUMBUS (April 12, 2001) — At the request of Cincinnati Mayor Charlie Luken, Governor Bob Taft today dispatched members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol to Cincinnati to assist local officials in maintaining public safety. The Patrol will have the limited mission of assisting local law enforcement with traffic control, building security, escorting fire and emergency medical services personnel, and other support services.

Taft also issued the following statement to the citizens of Cincinnati:

"I am very concerned for the citizens of Cincinnati, and I appeal to the community to work together to restore order to the streets and neighborhoods. I have offered condolences to the family of Timothy Thomas and commend his mother, Angela Leisure, for calling to end the violence and demonstrating her unselfish thoughts for the community at this tragic time for her and her family.

"I appeal to members of the community to cease unlawful activity, and I ask all citizens to remember that restoring order is the first step toward resolving the issues surrounding this difficult situation.

"I remain in contact with community leaders, and I will continue to monitor the circumstances closely.

"The safety of all citizens must be the priority at this time. I urge all the citizens of Cincinnati to work together for the good of their city."