Akron Settles for $4.8m With Family of Man Killed by Police

Akron Settles for $4.8m With Family of Man Killed by Police

Introduction

The family of a man who was fatally shot by Akron police in a barrage of 94 bullets after he allegedly fired at least one shot from his car will receive a $4.8 million settlement from the city.

The incident, which began as a traffic stop on June 27, 2022, resulted in the man being struck 46 times, igniting citywide protests and straining police-community relations.

Although a grand jury declined to indict the officers involved, the man's family filed a federal lawsuit, accusing the officers of excessive force and alleging a "culture of violence and racism" within Akron’s police department.

According to the investigation, police initially attempted to stop the man due to a broken taillight and rear license plate light. When he failed to pull over, officers pursued him, and they claimed he fired a shot from his vehicle before fleeing on foot. A state investigation found that after abandoning his moving car, he ran from the police, ignored commands, and allegedly made movements that led officers to believe he was reaching for a weapon.

The settlement announcement from the city noted ongoing discussions with the family and community members to improve police procedures. As part of policy changes, Akron police officers are now prohibited from pursuing vehicles solely for equipment violations. A family attorney stated that the settlement brings more than financial compensation, highlighting significant policy reforms achieved through the litigation.

The family’s attorneys criticized the state investigation, arguing it was biased toward police and disputing the claim that the man directly targeted officers when he fired his weapon. They maintained that his actions did not justify the level of force used.

The eight officers involved were initially placed on leave, later reassigned to desk duty, and eventually reinstated to active duty in February. The family’s legal team said they would provide further comments once the court finalizes the settlement.