GROVE CITY, Ohio — A Democratic candidate for Ohio’s 15th Congressional District is facing multiple charges following an arrest during a “No Kings” protest near Grove City Hall on Saturday, March 28, 2026.
Don Leonard, a former clinical professor at The Ohio State University, was cited for a minor misdemeanor noise violation and charged with Obstruction of Official Police Business, a second-degree misdemeanor. A second individual, Chad Fields, was also charged with Obstruction and Disorderly Conduct during the same event.
The Incident
According to Grove City Police, officers intervened after hearing amplified sound from several blocks away, citing a local ordinance that prohibits the use of bullhorns or loudspeakers without prior authorization.
Witness video shows officers surrounding Leonard while he addressed a crowd from a truck bed. In the footage, Leonard acknowledges the bullhorn use but argues he was exercising his First Amendment rights.
- Police Account: Officers stated that Leonard disobeyed direct instructions to walk toward a police cruiser for citation.
- Leonard’s Account: In a statement released Sunday, Leonard claimed he surrendered the bullhorn but hesitated to follow officers to an “isolated spot” away from witnesses as the situation grew tense.
“I indicated that I would prefer to stay within view of the public. I was then taken into custody,” Leonard stated, though he added that Grove City police treated him with “respect and professionalism” during the processing.
Political Implications
The arrest comes just weeks before the May 5 Democratic Primary. Leonard is currently campaigning against Adam Miller for the chance to challenge incumbent Republican Mike Carey or Republican challenger Samuel Ronan in the November general election.
The “No Kings” demonstrations, which organizers claim drew millions of participants nationwide this past Saturday, were coordinated to protest the policies of the second Trump administration.
Current Status
The Grove City Law Director is currently reviewing the charges against both Leonard and Fields. Leonard’s campaign confirmed he was released shortly after his arrest and remains focused on his primary bid.
