Unsettling rumors ignited on the national political stage were swirling through town that local immigrants were stealing and eating pets. The meeting had been organized by town religious leaders who were desperate to counter the claims.

Springfield, Ohio, is increasing security as unfounded claims about Haitian immigrants, many of whom are legal residents, have led to a series of threats against schools and city buildings. The baseless claims have been amplified by former President Trump and his running mate,

Former President Donald Trump said he plans to visit Springfield, Ohio — the city of which he has spread lies about migrants eating residents’ pets — despite local officials saying the town already has an intense strain on its resources.