Rep. Sykes Issues Statement on Grand Jury Decision Not to Pursue Charges Against the Eight Akron Police Officers Involved in the Fatal Shooting of Jayland Walker
AKRON, OH — U.S. Representative Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13) issued the following statement on the grand jury decision not to pursue charges against the eight Akron police officers involved in the fatal shooting of Jayland Walker:
“We’ve seen it too many times. A routine traffic stop ends in death, and a family and community mourn the loss of a son. A brother. A friend. A neighbor. As this country and community reckons with another tragic death, we find ourselves yearning for a justice system that protects us all.
“The safety and security of our neighborhoods requires trust between the community and the law enforcement officers who have taken an oath to protect and serve, but this trust has been violated and must be rebuilt. As such, I will formally request the Department of Justice to begin an investigation into the patterns and practices of the Akron Police Department to start the process of understanding how the department operates and look to create solutions for more community-focused policing that serves the needs of every segment of our community.
“Finally, as people begin to express their anger, grief, and concern through their Constitutional right to protest, I ask that you remember the words of Jayland’s family and honor his memory by protesting without violence. After the TV crews leave and the nation is no longer watching, it will only be us left to pick up the pieces. Our community deserves the chance to heal and move forward which we will do, must do — together,” said Rep. Sykes.