Daily life for many Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, has been upended following false claims made by former President Donald Trump and Trump’s running mate (and Ohio senator) JD Vance, that Haitian immigrants had been stealing pets and eating them.

Springfield Mayor Rob Rue issued a proclamation on Thursday that allows him temporary emergency powers to address safety concerns amid violent threats tied to the baseless claims.

“Ensuring the safety of Springfield’s residents is our top priority,” Rue said in a statement, according to local outlets.

The emergency proclamation will allow the city to quickly and efficiently respond to possible threats, including potential acts of violence, civil unrest and cyber threats, a local CBS affiliate reported. It will reportedly remain in effect until a determined decrease in the risks to public safety.

The city — located about 45 miles from the capital city of Columbus and with a large Haitian immigrant population — has had to close college campuses, elementary and middle schools, grocery stores and government buildings and canceled a two-day cultural festival due to safety concerns surrounding the debunked rumors.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine also announced on Tuesday that Ohio state police would be stationed in city schools to alleviate growing safety concerns. Additionally, bomb-sniffing dogs and security cameras have been stationed around the city.

“Honestly, I don’t feel safe. It’s not good right now,” Jean-Patrick Louisius, a...

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