COLUMBUS — The campaign of Republican Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy has terminated its relationship with a private security firm following the federal arrest of a Bellefontaine man who previously served as a bodyguard for the candidate’s family.
According to multiple reports, the campaign ended its contract with ARK Protection Group after Justin Salsburey, 43, of Bellefontaine, was arrested late last year on federal drug trafficking charges. Campaign officials confirmed Salsburey had been removed from any security duties immediately following the arrest and that the campaign has since transitioned to a new security provider.
Federal authorities allege Salsburey was involved in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Court records indicate the investigation is ongoing.
In a related development, Ruthann Rankin Salsburey, Salsburey’s wife and a teacher at Urbana City Schools, was also charged in federal court in connection with the same investigation. Prosecutors allege the couple received numerous packages containing illegal drugs through the U.S. mail over an extended period.
A campaign spokesperson said the Ramaswamy family was notified by law enforcement and acted swiftly to ensure the safety of the candidate and his family. The campaign added that Salsburey had passed background checks and routine drug screenings prior to being assigned to the security detail.
Neither Justin nor Ruthann Salsburey has publicly commented on the charges. Court proceedings are pending.
Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and political newcomer, is seeking the Republican nomination for Ohio governor. The campaign emphasized that no other members of its staff or security team are connected to the investigation.
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