WELLSTON, Ohio — A visible law enforcement presence in Wellston sparked widespread speculation on social media Friday morning, as residents reported what appeared to be a federal raid in the small Jackson County community.
Multiple posts circulating online claimed federal agents were in town. One resident wrote, “Watch out, ICE is in town,” while another posted, “The feds are here.”
Video obtained by the Guardian shows what appears to be a standard law enforcement operation at a residence on the south end of town. The footage shows tactical officers with a police Bearcat entering and securing the property.
Area law enforcement officials confirmed the operation but provided limited details.
Wellston Police Chief John Robinson said local police were not involved.
“We do not have an incident report on this, as it was a joint operation involving the U.S. Marshal’s Office,” Robinson said. “We were not involved, and I do not know what agencies.”
Jackson County Sheriff Tedd E. Frazier also declined to provide details, directing inquiries to federal authorities.
“You can contact the U.S. Marshals in Columbus, Ohio,” Frazier said.
No information has been released regarding the target of the raid, the reason for the operation, or whether any arrests were made. Federal officials have not released a public statement at this time.
The Guardian is working to gather additional details.