Columbus Police Investigate 8 Calls Following Daycare Social Media Videos

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The Columbus Division of Police has responded to at least eight calls following social media videos related to daycares in the area. While a police spokesperson could not confirm the details of each call, they provided information on the types of incidents reported. These included disturbances, requests for assistance, checks on well-being, and reports of suspicious individuals or telephone harassment.

“The Division remains committed to the safety and well-being of all Columbus residents and communities, and encourages the public to report any concerns through the appropriate channels,” the spokesperson said.

The situation comes as investigations into alleged fraud in daycares across the country continue. In Ohio, a Republican lawmaker has called for inspections of childcare facilities, referencing ongoing investigations into similar issues in Minnesota.

Rep. Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) claimed that there have been widespread reports of certain childcare facilities fraudulently billing the state for children who are not actually present. However, he did not provide specific examples to support his allegations.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine addressed the issue by confirming that the state pays facilities based on attendance, not enrollment. This clarification came after Sen. Bill DeMora (D-Columbus) criticized Rep. Williams for linking Columbus’ large Somali population to potential fraud.

DeMora expressed frustration with Williams' claims, stating, “For someone who has never lived in Columbus and has no REAL FACTS about anything, [Rep. Josh Williams] should actually do something to help his constituents instead of repeating the nonsense of online racist trollers.” He also pointed out that the governor of his own party dismissed Williams’ claims as “complete b**t.”

DeWine outlined the steps taken by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) to verify attendance and identify potential fraud, waste, or misuse of funds at the nearly 5,200 childcare facilities receiving taxpayer money. He emphasized that DCY has a comprehensive review process that includes unannounced health and safety inspections.

According to DeWine, the DCY received 124 tips alleging fraud at childcare facilities in 2025. Of these, 61 programs had to repay money to the state, 12 were closed entirely, and 30 were found to be operating within the law. DeWine also warned about the dangers of relying on misleading online evidence.

“For example, DCY received a social media tip regarding a childcare facility in Columbus on State Route 161,” DeWine said. “This address caused concern on social media because the Google Maps image showed a tobacco shop and not a daycare. After investigating, DCY determined that the Google Maps image was from 2022. The facility did not open as a daycare until earlier this year.”

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