Representative Fudge applauds the City of Cleveland and the Department of Justice, calls consent decree a renewed commitment to the community

(Warrensville Heights, OH) - Today, Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the City of Cleveland announced a settlement regarding a pattern of unconstitutional policing and use of excessive force in the Cleveland Division of Police (CDP):

“Today is a turning point for the City of Cleveland, its police department and its citizens. The City and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) have come together and successfully negotiated a consent decree.  I commend Mayor Frank Jackson, Steven Dettelbach, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, and former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder for their diligence and hard work.

“Today’s agreement signals a renewed sense of commitment to our community.  I initially contacted the DOJ in December 2012 following the tragic high speed police pursuit of Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams.  In August 2014, following unrest in Ferguson, Missouri, I again contacted Attorney General Holder and identified specific items that must be included in the decree to end excessive use of force and improve police-community relations in Cleveland.  Although I have not reviewed the entire agreement, I am pleased to hear many of the reforms released so far: greater accountability, community engagement, officer training and monitoring, among others.

“What this means to the people of Cleveland is that the City and the DOJ understood the urgent need to come to this agreement.  Sweeping, systemic changes can now be implemented, and together we can start to rebuild trust and a positive relationship between the Cleveland Department of Police and the community.

“While there is still work to be done, this is a giant step in the right direction.  I pledge my support to the Mayor, the Department of Justice and our citizens to continue the positive momentum.”

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