Ex-Bodyguard of Gubernatorial Candidate Charged in Drug Trafficking Case
Columbus, Ohio — Vivek Ramaswamy, the Republican candidate for Ohio governor, has raised concerns after learning that a former bodyguard is facing serious federal drug trafficking charges. The allegations involve the delivery of narcotics to a residence linked to the bodyguard and his spouse.
Why It Matters
This situation is significant not only because it affects Ramaswamy’s campaign image but also raises questions about security vetting procedures within his protective detail. The unfolding legal circumstances could have repercussions for his public perception ahead of the gubernatorial election.
Key Developments
- Justin Salsburey, 43, has been charged alongside his wife, Ruthann Rankin, with conspiracy and possession related to narcotics distribution via U.S. mail.
- Ramaswamy’s family had employed Salsburey as a bodyguard through a private security firm, which terminated his services upon discovering the charges.
- The couple allegedly received over 260 parcels containing counterfeit OxyContin and other drugs at their home between August 2024 and last month.
- Rankin has lost her job as a schoolteacher due to the allegations, while Salsburey remains in custody at Franklin County Jail.
- Ramaswamy’s campaign spokesperson emphasized that Salsburey had previously passed multiple background checks and drug screenings.
Full Report
According to court documents, both Salsburey and Rankin were indicted on charges linked to their alleged involvement in drug trafficking activities. The authorities report that the couple received narcotics through the postal service at their Bellefontaine home, with the deliveries occurring over a period since last year.
Connie Luck, spokesperson for Ramaswamy’s campaign, confirmed that ARK Protection Group, the security firm providing services to the Ramaswamy family, took immediate action to remove Salsburey upon learning of the charges. “Vivek’s family contracts with a private security firm for protective services and was alarmed to hear this disturbing news,” she stated.
Luck further clarified that Salsburey passed several background checks administered by both the security company and law enforcement agencies, including a recent check by Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center. Furthermore, Salsburey had evaluated negative in subsequent drug screenings.
In light of these events, Ramaswamy’s campaign expressed its support for judicial accountability if the allegations are substantiated. “Vivek and his family take matters of safety seriously and support efforts to hold these individuals accountable for these allegations if they are proven,” Luck remarked.
Context & Previous Events
Justin Salsburey served as a bodyguard for the Ramaswamys via a private security firm. The investigations surrounding him and his spouse gained traction late last month when federal charges were filed against them for drug-related offenses involving significant quantities of narcotics.
