police reform

Councilman Kevin Hall was one of three councilmembers to walk out of this week's meeting in solidarity with protestors calling for police reform.

The petition with 58,000 signatures from around the nation demands protesters arrested for peaceful demonstrations be cleared of all charges and for policy changes holding police accountable; Columbus teachers have paused their strike and reached a "conceptual agreement" with Columbus City Schools; and more stories.

The state heath department recommends students and staff still isolate if they feel sick and mask up for as long as they test positive; Columbus teachers are on strike for the first time in five decades; Akron community organizers push for police reform during Jayland Walker Week of Action ... and more stories.

Council will not meet again until Sept. 12 due to its regular August recess. One councilman, Ward 8's Shammas Malik, is calling for a special meeting in August to vote on a civilian review board.

The council failed to introduce legislation during its last session before summer recess and faces a deadline of Sept. 9; A second case of monkeypox has been confirmed in Cleveland while COVID-19 infections across Northeast Ohio are rising again due to the new BA.5 variant ... and more stories.

Under Cleveland's Charter Section 115, the Civilian Police Review Board has authority over hiring at the investigative agency Office of Professional Standards and can launch its own investigations.

Opponents of bill say it limits free speech.

Their plan focuses on accountability, racial bias, and the relationship with the community. Republicans have yet to announce their plan, which is expected soon.

The new legislation that has been introduced in Ohio aims to expand the definition of obstruction of justice but raises concerns for police reform efforts and freedom of speech.

Throughout this month, residents are being asked to give their views on the police department.