‘Unwanted Messages’ Sent To Cheshire Council Chair Investigated

CHESHIRE, CT — Police are investigating “unwanted messages” that were sent to Cheshire Town Council Chairman Rob Oris and his family through social media, according to the Meriden Record-Journal.

The Record-Journal reports the attacks directed at Oris through social media and email started around the same time as the recent incident involving Cheshire football coach Don Drust’s job. Around 100 people recently went to the Cheshire Board of Education offices in support of Drust after hearing the popular football coach's job may be in jeopardy.

GameTimeCT.com, citing sources, reported the issue was related to a clerical issue involving paperwork believed to be Drust's coaching certification that has since been resolved. Superintendent of Schools Jeffrey Solan recently announced that Drust would remain in his position.

Oris, whose two sons played for Drust, told the Record-Journal that the social media and email attacks were some of the “most vile and reprehensible” things he’s ever received.

School officials never commented on what the issue involving Drust was, saying only that it was a personnel matter. Solan also noted that there are “strict laws surrounding the release of personnel matters when in public agencies."

"These are not meant to stifle information, but to protect all parties involved," Solan said.

In his statement, Solan also alluded to personal attacks that were made against at least one council member, but didn’t elaborate.

"At no time, were Town Councilors apprised of details or consulted with regarding this situation,” Solan said at the time. “No Town Councilor had any input in this process. While politicians welcome public feedback and discourse, those who serve their community and especially their family members should never be subjected to personal attacks. It is disturbing to know that personal attacks and even threats have occurred. There is no place for that in our community."

Read more at the Meriden Record-Journal here.