Member of Bernie Moreno's Senate campaign staff resigns after contentious traffic stop

ASHVILLE, Ohio (WCMH) -- Bernie Moreno reached out to Ashville police to apologize for the actions of two members of his Senate campaign staff after a traffic stop that led to one of them being arrested and officers threatening to arrest the other.

According to police, the stop became contentious, culminating in the arrest of Abby Wright, a finance assistant for the campaign. Colton Henson, a contracted political adviser for the campaign and an Ashville village council member, was also in the vehicle, and police said he repeatedly tried to interfere with them.

Police said they saw a car fail to properly stop at a stop sign, speed and then stop on the wrong side of the road before initiating the stop. Police said Henson got out of the vehicle, said Wright was his girlfriend and attempted to stop the officer from speaking with her.

Police said they had reasonable suspicion Wright had been drinking and had her consent to several sobriety tests, during which officers noted 12 counts indicating she was not sober. Wright also struggled to locate her insurance, and once found, it was determined to have recently expired.

Throughout the interactions, police said Henson continued to interfere, eventually resulting in the officer calling for assistance. Henson continued to do so after the second officer arrived, police said, adding they warned if he continued he would be arrested for obstruction of justice. Police also said after Wright was arrested, he "tried to yell" at officers and told them to "f--- off."

Ashville is a village of about 4,600 in northern Pickaway County, to the south of Columbus.

Chris Grant, a consultant for the Moreno campaign, said Henson interacted with law enforcement disrespectfully, leading to his resignation Friday.

"Respect for law enforcement is a core value of our campaign, and because Mr. Henson's behavior did not meet that standard, he has resigned his position. While we appreciate his service, accountability requires tough decisions," Grant said. "Bernie has personally called the law enforcement involved to apologize for the incident and reinforce his respect for the incredible job they do for our community."

Moreno, a Republican who earned the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, is challenging Sen. Sherrod Brown for his seat. The close race is one of the most expensive in the country this year, and it's possible the outcome could determine which party controls the Senate beginning in 2025.

Wright was initially cited for operating a vehicle while impaired, driving without a valid license, expired tags on her vehicle and failure to yield at a stop sign. All but the OVI charge were dismissed on Sept. 9. Wright pleaded not guilty to the OVI charge on Sept. 3, but the charge was amended on Sept. 9 and reduced to a reckless driving charge. Wright pleaded guilty to this charge on Sept. 12 and paid a $561 fine.

Wright was also sentenced to 30 days in jail, with 26 days being suspended, and she is on probation for a year.

"Ms. Wright cooperated and was respectful to law enforcement while they executed their proper role and duties," Grant said. "She has accepted responsibility, paid her fines and has had her license and vehicle returned. We consider this matter closed."