Locals fuming as they claim migrants 'decapitating and eating ducks in the park'

The arrival of the migrants has boosted the local economy but has triggered concerns among some residents.

Speaking at the meeting held last month, one frustrated resident said: "I really challenge you guys to get out here and do something.

"These Haitians are running into trash cans, running into buildings... they're flipping cars in the middle of the streets.

"They're in the park, grabbing up ducks by their neck, and cutting their head off and walking off with them. They're eating them."

Reports of migrants eating animals such as ducks remain unconfirmed.

In a statement, the City of Springfield said: "In response to recent rumours alleging criminal activity by the immigrant population in our city, we wish to clarify that there have been no credible reports or specific claims of pets being harmed, injured or abused by individuals within the immigrant community."

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In 2020, swarms of Haitian migrants arrived in the city to fill job vacancies.

It came as the Haitians were willing to do blue-collar jobs which locals did not want.

Over recent years, 20,000 immigrants have arrived in Springfield with social security numbers and job permits, they paid taxes and lived in houses that were empty.

"I think it's sad that some people are using this as an opportunity to spread hate or spread fear," deputy director of public safety and operations Jason Via told NPR.

"We get these reports 'the Haitians are killing ducks in a lot of our parks' or 'the Haitians are eating vegetables right out of the aisle at the grocery store.'

"And we haven't really seen any of that. It's really frustrating. As a community, it's not helpful as we try to move forward."

However, their arrival has also put pressure on medical services, the education system and activated a housing crisis.