FBI Investigates Violent Downtown Cincinnati Mob Attack

The FBI has launched a federal investigation into a violent attack in downtown Cincinnati that involved about 100 people and left a man and woman seriously injured. The incident, which occurred near the Cincinnati Music Festival but was not directly connected to it, was captured on video showing a man being repeatedly kicked and a woman knocked unconscious. Attorney General Pam Bondi ordered the FBI's involvement after Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno connected the Department of Justice with the victims, and Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon emphasized that federal hate crime laws will be closely monitored in the case. Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge condemned the attack as "cruel and absolutely unacceptable," noting the incident likely involved alcohol and that only one 911 call was made despite many bystanders filming. Five individuals have been charged, with authorities continuing the search for additional suspects. The investigation has drawn national attention and criticism of local authorities' response, with Republican leaders condemning the violence and calling for federal action.