CLEVELAND, February 16, 2006 - In an ongoing effort to heal the breach between the community and the Division of Police, ensure fairness and provide closure, Mayor Frank G. Jackson announced today that the City of Cleveland will implement new policies in the handling of deadly force investigations. He was joined by Law Director Robert Triozzi, Interim Public Safety Director Martin L. Flask, Interim Chief Prosecutor Anthony Jordan and Police Review Board Chairperson Tom Jones.
"Both the citizens of the City of Cleveland and our police officers deserve an open, honest and fair process that investigates incidents involving deadly force," said Mayor Jackson. "This is an important step in healing the breach in our community."
Mayor Jackson said there will be a full implementation of the Police Review Board, which was established by the city's charter but has yet to be empowered to fully investigate these cases. The Police Review Board (PRB) consists of civilians and is charged with investigating any use of deadly force by a City of Cleveland police officer, including in-custody deaths. The PRB's investigation will take place after all criminal and civil proceedings regarding the incident are complete.
"This commitment by the Jackson Administration will allow us to provide the citizens of the City of Cleveland with a more timely resolution of use of deadly force cases and foster improved relationships between the community and the police," said Jones.
After investigations have been completed by the use of deadly forces investigation team, cases are now to be reviewed by the City's Chief Prosecutor within 90 days. The Law Director can grant a one-time extension for complex investigations. Upon completion of the prosecutor's determination, case will be submitted to Police Review Board (PRB).
"We are committed to providing the Prosecutor the resources necessary to complete his investigations in a timely manner, while ensuring that his reviews are thorough, professional and unbiased," said Triozzi.
In addition, Cleveland Police Department's Homicide Unit will implement a policy that all statements of officers and witnesses be recorded in either digital or analog format.
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