At a court appearance on Saturday, Hamilton County Prosecutor Ryan Nelson stated that the act appeared to be calculated and intentional.
“The driver, in a way that was premeditated, positioned his car, accelerated, and intentionally caused the death of an on-duty deputy sheriff,” Nelson said.
Witnesses at the scene echoed that sentiment, with several reportedly stating that it appeared Hinton Jr. had deliberately targeted the officer.
Prosecutors are seeking an indictment for aggravated murder, one of the most serious charges in Ohio law. Hinton Jr. is currently being held without bond, with a hearing scheduled for Tuesday.
The identity of the deputy has not been released, as Ohio law allows for the protection of victims’ identities. He had previously retired but was serving in a special deputy role at the time of the incident.
Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge described the incident as a devastating loss: “The officer was just doing his job on what should have been a celebratory day for many.”
