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Grand Jury Declines to Charge Cleveland Heights Officers in Teen’s Fatal Shooting

An internal review of police conduct is underway as city officials draft legislation for a citizen oversight commission

Overview

  • A Cuyahoga County grand jury concluded on July 21 that three officers will not face criminal charges over the August 29, 2024, shooting of 18-year-old Christian Tyson Thomas
  • The officers returned to duty after an extended leave while the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation completed its review
  • Mayor Khalil Seren directed the department’s Professional Standards Bureau to assess use-of-force protocols, training practices and officer conduct
  • City Council is preparing legislation to establish a citizen Police Review Commission that would investigate complaints, recommend policy changes and oversee promotions
  • The Thomas family, represented by attorney Stanley Jackson, is planning its own press conference to press for greater transparency and accountability