Joe Burrow Foundation Cuts Ties With Board Member Over Controversial Comments

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s charitable foundation has removed a board member. The move follows controversial public remarks made about the murder of commentator Charlie Kirk. The decision was announced by the Joe Burrow Foundation on Friday.

The board member was identified by local reports as Hamilton County Judge Ted Berry. Berry faced immediate backlash for his comments on social media following the tragic shooting in Utah.

Judge’s Remarks Spark Immediate Backlash

According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, Judge Berry posted inflammatory statements on Facebook. He reportedly wrote “Rest in Hatred & Division!” in response to news of Kirk’s death. Another comment asked how Kirk felt about gun violence “in Hell, now.”

These remarks drew swift condemnation from Ohio officials. State Representative Adam Mathews, a Republican, called the comments shocking and unacceptable. He publicly demanded Berry’s resignation from the bench.

Berry has served as a municipal court judge since 2005. He is a Democrat and had already announced plans to retire in January. His retirement is unrelated to this recent controversy.

Foundation Acts Quickly to Distance Itself

The Joe Burrow Foundation responded within days of the comments surfacing. The organization released a firm statement on the matter. It confirmed an advisory board member had been terminated.

The foundation stated the individual’s remarks were inappropriate. It clarified that the comments did not reflect the values or mission of the charity. While not naming Berry directly, the statement left no room for ambiguity regarding their decision.

Judge Berry later issued a statement to the Enquirer. He expressed regret if his words caused division and stated he does not condone violence. He said his intent was not to divide and he hopes for peace.

The foundation, founded in 2022, focuses on aiding children. Its mission tackles mental health issues and food insecurity in the community. Burrow, the Bengals’ star quarterback, serves as its president.

The Joe Burrow Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to its core values through this decisive action. This incident highlights the intense public scrutiny facing public figures and those associated with them in today’s polarized climate.

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What did the Joe Burrow Foundation announce?

The foundation announced it terminated an advisory board member. This was due to inappropriate remarks made about recent events. The individual is no longer associated with the charity.

Who was the board member involved?

Local reports identified the board member as Hamilton County Judge Ted Berry. He is an elected municipal court judge who had planned to retire in January.

What were the controversial comments about?

The comments were made on Facebook following the murder of commentator Charlie Kirk. The remarks were widely criticized for being inflammatory and divisive.

How did the judge respond to the criticism?

Judge Berry stated he regrets if he caused division and does not condone violence. He said his intent was not to divide and he hopes for peace.

What is the focus of the Joe Burrow Foundation?

The foundation supports children facing mental health challenges and food insecurity. It was established by the Bengals quarterback in 2022.