GoFundMe Campaigns Emerge Amidst Tragedy of Ohio Deputy’s Death and Prior Police Shooting

The aftermath of a harrowing sequence of events in Cincinnati, Ohio, has seen a community grappling with grief, anger, and questions of justice. The situation unfolded with the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Ryan Hinton by a Cincinnati police officer, followed by the alleged intentional killing of Hamilton County Deputy Larry Henderson by Ryan’s father, Rodney Hinton Jr. In the wake of these tragedies, online fundraising campaigns have emerged, sparking controversy and igniting further debate over the circumstances surrounding both deaths.

Rodney Hinton Jr. is currently facing charges of aggravated murder in connection with the death of Deputy Henderson. According to Cincinnati police, Hinton Jr. allegedly struck the deputy with a vehicle while Henderson was directing traffic near the University of Cincinnati during a graduation ceremony. The incident occurred just one day after Ryan Hinton was fatally shot by police.

The Cincinnati Police Department Chief Teresa Theetge stated that officers were in pursuit of a vehicle reported stolen from an apartment complex. As the pursuit unfolded, four individuals exited the vehicle and attempted to flee. One officer pursued Ryan Hinton, who was allegedly armed and concealed himself behind a dumpster. Chief Theetge stated that when Ryan emerged from behind the dumpster, the officer discharged their weapon, fatally wounding him. Two other suspects involved in the stolen vehicle incident have been apprehended, while one remains at large.

The unfolding of these events has triggered a wave of emotions and reactions, both within the Cincinnati community and beyond. The emergence of GoFundMe campaigns underscores the deep divisions and conflicting perspectives surrounding the incidents.

One GoFundMe campaign, titled "Justice for Rodney Hinton Jr and his Son," has garnered significant attention and financial support. The campaign aims to raise funds for Rodney Hinton Jr.’s legal defense, asserting the need for justice in his son’s death and calling for an end to police brutality against "innocent people and children." As of the latest reports, the campaign has raised over $5,000.

A separate GoFundMe campaign, titled "Help Honor Ryan Hinton’s Memory and Seek Justice," focuses on raising funds for Ryan Hinton’s family. The campaign seeks to provide legal representation to investigate the circumstances of his death and to create a proper memorial to honor his life. This campaign has reportedly raised over $7,000.

The existence of these campaigns has not been without controversy. The National Police Association has strongly condemned the GoFundMe initiative supporting Rodney Hinton Jr., arguing that it violates the platform’s policies. The association has called for GoFundMe to remove the fundraiser, citing the serious nature of the charges against Hinton Jr.

GoFundMe has yet to publicly comment on the matter.

Meanwhile, attorneys representing the Hinton family have issued a statement indicating that the Cochran Firm has been retained to conduct an independent investigation into Ryan Hinton’s shooting death. The attorneys stated that they are in the preliminary stages of their investigation and that they are committed to uncovering the truth surrounding the events that led to his death.

The attorneys also confirmed that Hinton family members, including Ryan’s father, attended a meeting with Cincinnati police to view body camera footage of the shooting. The attorneys described the family as being "understandably distraught" as they watched the video.

The attorneys further stated that after the meeting, Rodney Hinton Jr. left in his own vehicle, and that they were unaware of his whereabouts until learning of the incident involving Deputy Henderson. The attorneys expressed their "heartfelt condolences to the family and colleagues of the officer who was killed" and acknowledged the "unimaginable tragedy" that has befallen the community. They stated that the Hinton family is "heartbroken by this tragic turn of events" and "devastated for the family of the officer who was killed."

Ohio Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) President Jay McDonald issued a statement asserting that Rodney Hinton Jr. "intentionally murdered" Deputy Henderson "just because he was a police officer."

Deputy Henderson was a 33-year veteran of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, having served in multiple specialized units since 1991, including the dive team, HCPA SWAT, FBI Task Force Officer, and the HCSO Bomb Unit.

Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey described Deputy Henderson as an exceptional trainer, noting his ability to connect with and positively impact the lives of countless officers. "We will continue to honor Larry’s life of service," Sheriff McGuffey stated.

In recognition of Deputy Henderson’s service and sacrifice, Ohio Governor Mike Dewine ordered that flags be lowered to half-mast in his honor.

The events in Cincinnati have sparked a complex and emotionally charged debate. The GoFundMe campaigns, the legal investigations, and the statements from law enforcement officials and family attorneys all point to a community grappling with profound loss and seeking answers in the face of tragedy. The legal proceedings against Rodney Hinton Jr. and the ongoing investigations into Ryan Hinton’s death are likely to be closely watched as the community seeks to understand the full scope of these events and their lasting impact. The questions of justice, accountability, and the role of law enforcement in the community remain central to the ongoing dialogue.