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Residents raise police conduct and outreach concerns during Akron City Council public comment
Summary
Several residents told the council about personal encounters with law enforcement, criticized use of the city seal and outreach practices, and called for accountability after the death of Jasmine Tucker; comments prompted offers for follow-up from city staff but no formal action during the meeting.
Multiple members of the public used the council's public comment period to describe negative encounters with law enforcement, criticize city outreach practices and urge civic attention to community concerns.
Georgette Prince described a recent incident at the Walmart on Arlington in which she said Springfield uniformed officers and security personnel told her she was trespassing, followed her to her parked car, dragged her out, and arrested her. "They snatched me so hard out of my car. I have torn tendons in my arm. I have no feeling," Prince said, asking the council to take notice of her treatment.
Jerome McClendon criticized a cease-and-desist notice the city issued over the use of the city seal on a community forum flyer. McClendon said the Greater Urban League, Akron Public Schools and the city law department discouraged use of the seal on the flyer and that the restriction prevented the planned forum at the Akron Public Library. "As a tax paying citizen, I should be able to use [the seal]," McClendon said, calling for city officials to meet and listen.
Randy Clark spoke about personal hardships following his father's death, described harassment and false accusations he said have affected his employment and safety, and asked city administrators to follow up: "I just needed some help... so I could be treated like a regular citizen of Akron, Ohio." Council staff asked to speak with him after the meeting.
Reverend John Beatty offered remarks about a recent funeral for Michael Stanley Screws, reflecting on grief across racial and religious lines and urging civic engagement; he thanked the community and encouraged attendance at an event connected to U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown's office.
A commenter identified as Janos criticized the Akron Police Department's handling of the death of Jasmine Tucker and the department's hiring and training practices. "We have instead suspended him for assault allegations. Why we don't screen for these properly in the Akron police is frankly disturbing," Janos said, adding that the city appears to prioritize police training centers and surveillance over other investments.
Council staff and the presiding officer thanked speakers and indicated administrative follow-up where appropriate. No formal council action on the matters raised was taken during this meeting.
