AKRON, Ohio – A new independent review of the Akron Police Department recommends sweeping changes to the department’s use-of-force policies, training, accountability systems and community engagement efforts as city leaders push to rebuild public trust in policing.
Akron Mayor Shammas Malik commissioned the $328,873 report, conducted by the Police Executive Research Forum. It examines whether Akron police policies and practices align with national best practices. The six-month review included interviews and feedback from officers, residents, police union representatives, council members and oversight officials.