Here's how influencers, monetized accounts and algorithms helped propel false claims about Haitian migrants eating pets in Springfield, Ohio.

The rumor mill about immigrants attacking household pets got its start in thinly sourced anecdotes shared at government meetings and on social media. But it really got going when AI-generated images and video that memeified the stories went viral.

However, the Springfield, Ohio, police department confirmed Monday that it found “no credible reports” of immigrants—illegal or legal—harming or eating pets, and no evidence of other concerning illegal behavior. Karen Graves, the city’s strategic engagement manager, released the following statement on Monday:

JD Vance recently presented what he said was evidence to prove his claim that immigrants are eating peoples' pets, but it was quickly debunked.

If I have to create stories so that the American media actually pays attention to the suffering of American people, then that’s what I’m going to do...'

Vance and his staff were informed by city officials that there were no credible reports of immigrants eating pets

A spokesperson for Vance provided the Wall Street Journal with a police report in which a resident claimed her pet had been taken by Haitian immigrants. They later found it.

Ohio stationed state police at Springfield schools Tuesday in response to a rash of bomb threats — the vast majority that officials said came from overseas —- after former President Donald Trump and his running mate,

Vance used a police report about a stolen cat to justify pet-eating rumors. ‘Miss Sassy’ was hiding in the basement - Anna Kilgore, a Springfield resident, apologized to her Haitian neighbors over the