Hate propaganda distributed in Amherst driveways; sheriff’s office investigating

By Brandi Makuski

AMHERST – Dozens of antisemitic and white supremacist propaganda packets were found scattered across the Village of Amherst Friday evening in what local officials are calling a cowardly act of hate.

The materials, many of which promoted known Holocaust denial and conspiracy theories, were thrown from a moving vehicle and left in driveways, front lawns, and sidewalks throughout the village.

According to Amherst Village President Dave Crubaugh, the packets were discovered around 8 p.m. on June 13. Each resealable plastic bag contained corn, peanuts, and sunflower seeds—likely used for weight—along with printed flyers promoting conspiracy videos such as “Europa: The Last Battle” and “9-11 Missing Links.”

One of the items included a sticker containing homophobic slurs and a violent threat against the LGBTQ+ community.

“This cowardly deed happened around 8 p.m.,” Crubaugh said in a public statement. “If you were able to record a license plate number from the vehicle, please contact the Portage County Sheriff’s Department.”

The materials were found exclusively within the village, Crubaugh confirmed in an interview with the Metro Wire on Saturday evening.

“They were driving by and throwing them out the car and in people’s driveways, in their lawns, all throughout the village, in various locations,” he said.

Crubaugh said multiple residents reported finding the bags on their property, including at least seven locations on Lincoln and Grant streets alone.

“We had people who had these on their Ring doorbells,” he added. “But none of them could catch the license number, though some did provide a description of the vehicle. One person who called the sheriff’s office was told they needed a license plate before they could really do anything.”

No property damage or vandalism has been reported, though Crubaugh said the village will continue monitoring for any related issues.

He also noted that a similar incident occurred earlier this year in nearby Waupaca.

“I don’t get it either. Why little old Amherst?” he said. “But I’ve talked to a couple people from Waupaca and this happened there earlier in the spring.”

Crubaugh thanked residents who promptly reported the incident and reiterated the village’s values.

“The Village of Amherst is a peaceful community that is tolerant of divergent opinions and beliefs,” he said. “Hate has no place here.”

Anyone with information is urged to call the Portage County Sheriff’s Department non-emergency number at 715-346-1400.