Modernize Use of Force and Other Public Safety Policies

Modernize Use of Force and Other Public Safety Policies

Description

Conduct a comprehensive review of use of force policy, public order policy, and other Akron Police Department (APD) and Akron Fire Department (AFD) rules, regulations, and standard operating procedures.

Why is This Important

Policies that reflect modern best practices and community values build public trust and keep both residents and officers safer. Regular, transparent reviews ensure APD and AFD standards are current, community-informed, and aligned with national best practices.

Initiative Wins

Selected the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) to conduct a use of force policy review.
Revised and issued the updated APD public order policy after expert consultation and community engagement.
Completed and released the 58-recommendation report from PERF's independent review of the Akron Police Department’s use of force policies and practices.

Impact Spotlight

What We’ve Done This Quarter

Issued the updated APD's public order policy after conducting community engagement, soliciting public comments, and consulting expert recommendations.
Completed and released the 58-recommendation report from PERF's independent review of the Akron Police Department’s use of force policies and practices alongside a public-facing dashboard that will track implementation of the recommendations in real time.

What We’re Working on Next Quarter

Updating AFD policies and procedures in accordance with applicable laws and best practices in partnership with policy experts at Lexipol (consultant).
Implementing the recommendations from the PERF report and tracking progress on a public-facing dashboard.