Every year about this time, I’m amazed at how fast a year goes by and look forward to spending time with family and friends. To me that’s what Holidays are all about, being with loved ones and enjoying each other’s company. It’s the not gifts, or the food; it’s really about connecting with those near and dear to us, and remembering the good times with those that have passed.
This year though, I grieve and struggle over the recent shooting death of Jazmir Tucker on Thanksgiving Night by Akron Police. I know we all grieve along with his family, and I pray for peace and healing as more information unfolds. I wonder what we all can do to prevent another young African American male from being killed. I have great respect for our hard working, dedicated Akron police officers. We rarely hear of the good things that they do every single day while putting their lives on the line for us.
But yet, something needs to change and I don’t know how I or my colleagues on City Council can foster this change. There are processes in place to review and discipline officers, both internally with BCI investigations and externally through recommendations from the our Citizen’s Police Oversight Board. The problem here is our city is hurting, grieving, angry and divided on what disciplinary action should be come next.
I welcome the Mayor’s office requesting to contract with a nationally known police consulting organization to review the Akron Police Department’s use of force policy. I look forward to learning what we can do to institute positive change.
I wish you all a safe and Happy Holiday Season, and as always, I am grateful for the privilege to be your Councilman.