BATAVIA, Ohio — A heated exchange during a Batavia council meeting — including an alleged “kiss my a—” remark — has now landed a local official in court.
Councilman Michael Gardner, 59, appeared in Clermont County Municipal Court today after being charged with assault following an incident outside Monday night’s meeting.
According to the Clermont County Sheriff’s Office, the situation escalated after a resident addressed council members during public participation. Authorities say Gardner followed the man outside, where a verbal confrontation turned physical.
No injuries were reported.
Video of the meeting, widely shared online, shows tensions already running high inside the chamber — with reports the resident directed an obscene gesture at the councilman and told him to “kiss my a—.”
The sheriff’s office says the alleged altercation continued outside shortly after.
Gardner — a former Batavia police chief — was arrested Tuesday and has pleaded not guilty. His bond was set at $7,500.
A further hearing is scheduled, where a magistrate will consider whether to impose a temporary protection order.
The sheriff’s office says all allegations of violence are taken seriously, regardless of who is involved
