A charity coed flag football event originally planned for this weekend in Ventura County has been cancelled after controversy arose about whether the event was becoming too political. The “Blue Bowl” was planned for Sunday in Newbury Park. It was intended to be a fundraiser for the family of Sgt. Ron Helus, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Sergeant fatally wounded responding to the Borderline Bar and Grill attack.
The lineup of speakers included a congressional candidate, a representative of the governor’s office, and actor Scott Baio. The Florida foundation organizing the event claimed the Sheriff’s Office pulled its support for the event because it was concerned about the participation of Trump supporters.
In a statement, Sheriff Bill Ayub says he withdrew support because it appeared the event was becoming more focused on political agendas and less on the victims families. He says organizers have since conducted what he called a "vicious" social media campaign against the Sheriff's Office.
The sergeant’s son issued a statement supporting the agency. Jordan Helus says he appreciated the intent of the fundraiser, but feels the agenda changed, and that it wasn’t the proper platform for people to be discussing politics.
