Published May 26, 2015 at 2:46 p.m.

By Sabrina Eaton, The Plain Dealer

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Rep. Marcia Fudge on Tuesday called a settlement between the city of Cleveland and the U.S. Justice Department "a turning point for the city of Cleveland, its police department and its citizens."

The Warrensville Heights Democrat issued a statement after a consent decree was announced Tuesday afternoon. Fudge applauded the diligence and hard work of Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder and Steven Dettlebach, who serves as U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio.

 "Today's agreement signals a renewed sense of commitment to our community," Fudge's statement continued. "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."