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Father of slain officer urges committee to allow thin-blue-line flag on private property under HB 75
Summary
Thomas DeSario testified in support of House Bill 75, asking lawmakers to add the American thin blue line flag to flags that may be displayed by residents in Ohio. He described his son's 2017 killing and a subsequent homeowners association dispute over flying the flag; committee members offered supportive remarks but took no formal action.
Thomas Desario, father of a slain police chief, delivered emotional sponsor testimony before the House Government Oversight Committee in support of House Bill 75, which would add the American thin blue line flag to flags permitted to be displayed under state rules.
Desario recounted that his son, Chief Eric DeSario, was killed on May 12, 2017, outside a nursing home in Kerkersville, Ohio. “Eric, at the time, was 38 years old,” Desario said. He told the committee his family received both military and law‑enforcement recognitions and that he displayed the American thin blue line flag to honor his son’s service.
Desario said he faced a homeowners association complaint and fines over flying the flag and eventually removed it in 2022 after threats and penalties. He told lawmakers he wants families of fallen first responders to be able to display the flag in remembrance. “I urge you to please add this flag to the list of flags that can be flown in the great state of Ohio,” Desario said.
Representative Frei, who said she cosponsored similar legislation previously, told Desario the House passed the bill in a prior session and expressed hope the measure would advance again. Representative Troy thanked Desario for his testimony and noted local law‑enforcement support.
No vote or formal committee action was recorded. The committee closed the hearing after members’ questions and moved to the next item on the agenda.
