CLEVELAND, OH (WOIO) – Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson has written a letter regarding how the city’s ability to overcome challenges has been overshadowed by recent events, including a report released by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Jackson first addresses how the city contacted the DOJ in 2012 to review the city’s policy governing use of force, after a deadly police chase and shooting on Nov. 29, 2012. He explains how the city welcomes the review so it can make necessary changes to improve the Cleveland Division of Police.
The investigation was not completed until Dec. 4, 2014. Two days earlier, the city and DOJ entered into a “Joint Statement of Principles” agreement, which states “the parties have agreed to begin negotiations with the intentions of reaching a court-enforceable settlement agreement.” One of the terms “will include a provision for an outside independent monitor to ensure continued compliance.”
While in the negotiation period, the city is reviewing the DOJ’s findings to determine which areas it finds in agreement. Once areas are agreed upon, the city will enter into a consent decree. So far, several meetings have been held, and more are scheduled.
Meanwhile, Jackson says the city is identifying areas that can be changed before the settlement.
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