Vivek Ramaswamy fires security firm after former bodyguard arrested

Ohio governor candidate Vivek Ramaswamy's family fired its security firm after his former bodyguard was arrested on drug trafficking charges.

The decision came after Justin Salsburey, 43, an ARK Protection Group bodyguard, was arrested on federal drug charges and accused of receiving fentanyl and methamphetamine through the mail. Federal investigators say the 261 packages he and his wife allegedly received were enough to constitute distribution.

A campaign spokesperson said the gubernatorial candidate and his wife made the decision based on their family's priorities.

“Vivek and Apoorva are parents first, and they put the security of their family first," said Connie Luck, from Ramaswamy's campaign. "In light of last week’s deeply troubling developments, the Ramaswamy family has begun the process of relieving ARK Protection Group of their responsibilities and transitioning to a new service provider.” 

The Ramaswamys' contract specified that ARK Protection Group employees were required to comply with all laws and regulations, Luck said. The campaign didn't say which firm the Ramaswamys were hiring next.

Ron Gazboda, the founder of the ARK Protection Group, said in a statement he was sorry the company disappointed the Ramaswamy family. “Their safety and protection remain our utmost priority, and we are supporting them as they transition to a new security service provider," Gazboda said.

Salsburey remains in the Franklin County Jail awaiting additional court hearings.

Ramaswamy is running as a Republican to replace Gov. Mike DeWine, who cannot run due to term limits. He will likely face Democrat Amy Acton, a former state health director.

Ohio state government reporter Jessie Balmert can be reached at [email protected] or @jbalmert on X.