(COLUMBUS, OH, 7/7/2022) – At CAIR-Ohio, we continue to mourn the loss of Jayland Walker, an unarmed 25-year-old Black man who was murdered by police last week. He was shot more than 60 times by Akron police as they chased him down. CAIR-Ohio’s Cleveland office is calling on the U.S. Department of Justice to launch an independent and transparent investigation into the killing of Jayland.
“The tragic death of Jayland Walker cries out for justice, accountability and change. To protect public safety and human rights, we are calling on the United States Department of Justice to launch an independent and transparent investigation into whether police violated Walker’s civil rights by shooting him dozens of times as he was fleeing, unarmed.
…A careful review by the DOJ of Akron’s use-of-force procedures, particularly the use of deadly force against fleeing suspects, and a DOJ review of race and policing in Akron are crucial. Analysis and reforms will not bring Jayland back, but future tragedies may be prevented.” – CAIR-Ohio Cleveland Executive Director Julia Shearson
As part of the crucial network of organizations on the ground, Akron Bail Fund is working to post bail for community members arrested at Akron protests and ensure that people can continue fighting for justice.
