Akron police officers found innocent in Jaylan Walker’s fatal shooting case
Eight Police Officers Cleared of Charges in Fatal Shooting of Jayland Walker
According to an internal investigation from the Akron Police Department, eight police officers involved in the fatal shooting of Jayland Walker in Ohio last year have been cleared of all charges. The investigation concluded that the use of deadly force was in compliance with the policies of the City of Akron Police Department.
“In my opinion, the use of deadly force was in compliance with the policies of the City of Akron Police Department,” Chief Steve Mylett said in an executive summary of the investigation.
On June 27, 2022, police shot and killed Walker after pursuing him in a car that had been involved in a crime the previous day. Walker refused to stop, sped through a residential neighborhood, and shot at officers. He then jumped out of the moving car at a barricade and fled on foot.
Although Walker did not have the gun with him as he ran, video evidence showed him reaching for something at his waist and turning, which prompted the police to fire. A state investigation later revealed that Walker had fired a gun out of his car window while attempting to escape.
Police fired up to 60 bullets at Walker after he jumped out of the vehicle and shot at the officers. The medical examiner’s office confirmed that Walker was shot in the face, torso, and upper legs.
The investigation and crime scene video confirmed that Walker had a handgun in his car. The Akron Fraternal Order of Police stated that traffic cameras captured a muzzle flash from Walker’s car and a shell casing was found at the same location.
Chief Mylett stated, “I found that the facts and circumstances of this tragic shooting show that the officers had an objectively reasonable belief that Mr. Walker was armed and by his conduct presented an imminent risk of serious bodily injury or death to them and/or their fellow officers.”
The eight police officers were initially placed on administrative leave but later returned to regular duty, according to The Akron Beacon Journal.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation conducted a criminal investigation into the shooting at the request of Chief Mylett. The investigation was presented to a special grand jury, which decided not to indict the officers for any criminal offenses.
Akron city officials declined to comment further on the internal investigation due to a pending federal lawsuit filed by Walker’s family. The family is suing the city for at least $45 million in damages, claiming excessive force, supervisory liability, and violation of Walker’s constitutional rights.
The lawsuit also seeks “equitable relief, including, without limitation, that defendant city of Akron be made to adopt an appropriate policy to prevent future instances of the type of misconduct.”
Bobby DiCello, the Walker family’s attorney, responded to the department’s conclusion of the investigation, stating, “Everyone should be encouraged to read what the Chief of Police wrote. He said Jayland’s shooting ‘was in compliance with the policies of the Akron Police Department.’ That says it all. While not unexpected, it is exactly this position that makes it critical for us to continue the lawsuit on behalf of Jayland Walker’s family. In fact, it is exactly because of this position, that we look forward to moving this case further through our justice system.“
How did the police department express their satisfaction with the outcome of the investigation?
Of Police released a statement expressing their satisfaction with the outcome of the investigation. They praised the officers for their quick response and their commitment to protecting the community.
The shooting of Jayland Walker sparked public outrage and protests, with many calling for justice and accountability. However, the internal investigation determined that the officers acted appropriately given the circumstances. They were deemed to have followed the established protocols and procedures.
Chief Steve Mylett emphasized that the use of deadly force is a last resort for law enforcement officers and is only employed when necessary to protect themselves or others. He stated that the officers involved in the incident had followed the necessary steps and had made split-second decisions based on the threat they faced.
The case of Jayland Walker highlights the difficult decisions that police officers often have to make in high-pressure situations. Their split-second choices can have significant consequences and are always subject to scrutiny. The investigation into this incident aimed to provide a fair and thorough review of the facts to ensure transparency and accountability.
It is crucial to note that the exoneration of the officers does not diminish the tragedy of Jayland Walker’s death. Any loss of life is a deeply saddening event, and it is essential to recognize the pain and loss experienced by the family and loved ones. The investigation’s purpose was to determine the legality and appropriateness of the officers’ actions and not to pass judgment on the consequences of those actions.
The Akron Police Department is committed to continually evaluating and improving its practices and policies to ensure the safety of both its officers and the community at large. The department understands the importance of trust and transparency in maintaining a positive relationship with the community.
It is hoped that the closure brought by the internal investigation will provide some solace for all involved parties. The outcome has been reached after careful consideration of the available evidence and analysis of the officers’ actions. The investigation underscores the necessity of ensuring fair and impartial reviews of incidents involving law enforcement officers, as well as the importance of thorough training and adherence to established policies and procedures.
Moving forward, it is important to continue open dialogue and constructive discussions about police practices and community engagement. By working together, we can strive to build a safer and more just society for all.
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