Ohio pastor faces threats while aiding Haitian immigrants

Pastor Carl Ruby says he has received anonymous death threats after publicly supporting Haitian migrants; federal agencies have contacted his Springfield church, and a judge temporarily stayed the planned end of Temporary Protected Status.

Pastor Carl Ruby of Central Christian Church in Springfield, Ohio, says he has received anonymous death threats after publicly supporting Haitian migrants. Federal and state agencies, including the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, have been in contact with the church about safety concerns. Several local churches report preparing to shelter migrants and have gathered supplies and training for nonviolent response. A federal judge issued a temporary stay on the planned end of Temporary Protected Status for many Haitians, and the matter is now before the D.C. court of appeals. Known facts: - Pastor Carl Ruby reports anonymous threats tied to his pro-immigrant organizing at Central Christian Church in Springfield. - The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI say they have been in contact with local churches and law enforcement about those threats. - A federal judge temporarily stayed the planned expiration of Temporary Protected Status for many Haitians; the case is now with the D.C. court of appeals. - Several churches in a local coalition say they are preparing shelter, stockpiling supplies, and conducting safety and nonviolence training. Summary: The reported threats have prompted federal and state agencies to monitor safety at faith institutions and led some churches to prepare to shelter migrants. The legal status of Temporary Protected Status remains pending before the D.C. court of appeals, which is the next venue for further legal developments.