Dec 21, 2024 Story by: Editor
AKRON, Ohio — A decision on an external audit of the Akron Police Department‘s use-of-force policies was postponed Monday by the Akron City Council.
The proposed legislation, introduced by Mayor Shammas Malik, Council President Margo Sommerville, and Ward 4 representative Jan Davis, faced vocal opposition and support from the community. Protesters expressed concerns both inside and outside the council chambers, with some opposing what they view as excessive force by officers, while others criticized the proposed $700,000 taxpayer-funded review.
“You’re willing to spend taxpayers’ money for this evaluation instead of making use of attorneys here in the state of Ohio that are willing to do it pro bono,” one resident said during the meeting.
Despite this, proponents argue that the audit is a necessary step, particularly in light of recent incidents such as the police shooting of 15-year-old Jazmir Tucker.
“We’ve lost too many lives that we should not have lost,” said Sommerville. “We’ve got to turn the ship. We’ve got to do something different.”
Mayor Malik emphasized the importance of unity and accountability, saying, “At the end of the day, we all have to live in this community together. We all have to have a police department where everyone feels the police department works for them too.”
Community Protests
During and after the meeting, dozens of protesters gathered around city hall, with some venturing to the parking lot where council members park their vehicles.
Mayor Malik Speaks on the Proposal
In a one-on-one interview with 3News on Saturday, Mayor Malik outlined the need for the review, describing it as a step toward meaningful change.
“It’s one step,” Malik said. “But my hope is that it’s something that can lead to meaningful change. We need to be clear-eyed about our challenges. We need to confront them directly and openly and honestly and not shy away from them.”
NAACP Calls for Action
NAACP Akron Branch President Judi Hill urged city leaders to prioritize genuine solutions over superficial fixes.
“We no longer will allow for smoke and mirrors because our city is at stake,” Hill said. “It’s really that simple.”
Hill also highlighted the financial toll on the city from lawsuits related to police use of deadly force, including the $5 million settlement reached in October with the family of Jayland Walker, who was unarmed when he was fatally shot 46 times by police in 2022.
“Would you rather try to fix this issue, or continue down the path that we’re going and continue to lose with these lawsuits?” Hill asked.
External Audit Details
If approved, the review would begin within weeks and could be completed in five to six months. The audit would be led by former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch in collaboration with the Paul, Weiss law firm and the consulting organization 21 CP Solutions.
Akron Police Chief Brian Harding expressed his support for the initiative, stating he looks forward to working with the team. Similarly, Akron Fraternal Order of Police President Brian Lucey said, “As a union, we’re open to this policy review and the opportunity to engage with the consultant teams and the community.”
Hill believes the audit could set a precedent for other cities.
“If we do this right, we could be a model for other cities,” Hill said. “If we learn to police ourselves and help our own, I think we could help other cities move forward as well.”
Final Vote Pending
The council must authorize the external audit, as its cost exceeds $50,000. A vote is expected at the year’s final council meeting on Monday. Image Source: WKYC
