CINCINNATI – A Cincinnati City Council member has faced intense criticism resulting from her remarks regarding a violent incident that occurred downtown, leading her to resign from a county board. Victoria Parks, who made headlines for stating that victims of the assault “begged for that beat down,” stepped down from the Hamilton County Veterans Services Commission on Wednesday.
In her resignation letter, addressed to County Commissioner President Denise Driehaus, Parks did not reference her controversial comments. Instead, she expressed gratitude for her appointment and reflected on the commission’s efforts to support veterans. She noted her pride in the work accomplished during her time with the board.
Parks, who continues to serve as the City Council’s President Pro Tem, has remained steadfast in her assertions, even as her statements sparked widespread backlash online. In January 2022, she began her term on the City Council, succeeding Todd Portune—who passed away in January 2020—after serving as his chief of staff from 2016 to 2019.
The incident that ignited this controversy occurred on July 26, when videos depicting a violent street altercation in downtown Cincinnati went viral. Cincinnati police reported that approximately 100 individuals were involved, and six victims experienced substantial physical harm. Police Chief Teresa Theetge described the violence as “unimaginable” during a news conference regarding the incident while noting that only one person had called 911 to report the assault.
The repercussions of the event have sparked conversations about crime, public safety, and community responses. Authorities have charged at least seven individuals, primarily with offenses related to aggravated riot and assault, as investigations continue into the incident. One of the suspects was charged for allegedly stealing a gold chain from a victim while filming the assault.
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval condemned Parks’ comments when questioned during a recent news conference about crime and public safety. He emphasized that the situation continues to develop and that law enforcement is diligently examining the details. “The entire fight was completely unacceptable,” Pureval remarked, stressing his commitment to holding those accountable for their actions.
As discussions unfold about the implications of violence in the city, officials are inviting local residents to apply for the open position on the veterans services board following Parks’ resignation.