MILLERSBURG (AP) — Authorities in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country say they arrested more than 70 people in a raid at a weekend party in a field that was expected to attract hundreds of Amish youth.
More than 40 officers converged Saturday on the Hardy Township field west of Millersburg off of Rt. 39 after concerned parents notified the Holmes County sheriff’s office of a large party expected to attract over 1,000 Amish from Ohio and neighboring states.
Investigators say 73 people, including 35 juveniles, were taken into custody and charged with underage consumption of alcohol.
The Daily Record of Wooster reports that some also face charges of resisting arrest, and two were taken to a hospital for alcohol related-illness.
The Times-Reporter of New Philadelphia reports that a similar party had taken place at the same location on Memorial Day.
Holmes County deputies were assisted in the raid by deputies from Carroll, Coshocton, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties. The Millersburg Police Department also assisted with transporting people to the county jail.
The Amish are a Christian sect whose members live a simple lifestyle and shun modern conveniences.
“Hopefully, this sent a message to the kids that they shouldn’t be drinking unless they’re over 21,” said Holmes County Sheriff Tim Zimmerly said. “We’re not going to tolerate these kinds of parties.”
