The Silence Speaks: Akron's Police Oversight in Limbo

Nearly five months have passed since Independent Police Auditor Anthony Finnell unveiled his critical report on police use of force in Akron. The report highlighted a troubling incident involving an Akron police officer who body-slammed a woman inside her own home. Yet, as the community watches closely, both Akron Mayor Shammas Malik and the Akron Police Department remain silent regarding any actions they plan to take in response to this alarming situation.

A Glimpse into the Incident

The incident in question involved Dierra Fields, who faced a body slam from Officer Thomas Shoemaker during a chaotic family dispute. Initially charged with resisting arrest, Fields was later acquitted at trial, raising serious questions about the appropriateness of the force used against her.

Promises Unkept

• In a July 10 meeting, Mayor Malik assured both Finnell and Citizens’ Police Oversight Board Chair Kemp Boyd that a response would be issued by August.
• Despite these assurances, no response has been provided to date, which has left Finnell and Boyd expressing disappointment.
• In a recent update, Police Chief Brian Harding informed Finnell that a response would be forthcoming by the end of September.

What's Next in the Oversight Process?

According to recent reports, the uncertainty surrounding the next steps in the oversight process is palpable. The charter amendment that established the Citizens’ Police Oversight Board (CPOB) does not clarify the obligations of city officials regarding the auditor's findings. This ambiguity raises concerns about accountability and transparency in policing.

Legal Loopholes: No Obligation to Respond

Under current city law, Mayor Malik and the Akron Police Department are under no legal obligation to respond to Finnell's reports or recommendations. They are not even required to read them, which calls into question the effectiveness of the oversight mechanism put in place by voters in response to incidents of police misconduct.

Malik's Position on Oversight

Mayor Malik has clarified that the roles of the independent police auditor and the CPOB are intended to provide feedback rather than to dictate policy or disciplinary measures. He emphasized that the onus is on elected officials to respond to the public's concerns regarding policing practices.

Anticipating Future Responses

As the situation develops, Mayor Malik has expressed a commitment to respond to future reports from the auditor. However, the lingering lack of response to the initial report raises doubts about the administration's dedication to meaningful oversight and accountability.

Before You Go...

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What do you think?

• Should the mayor be held accountable for the lack of response to the police auditor's report?
• Is it time to amend the charter to ensure mandated responses from city officials?
• How can the community push for more transparency in police oversight?
• Do you believe civilian oversight can effectively improve police practices?
• What implications does this silence have for the trust between the community and law enforcement?