The City of Shaker Heights, City Council and the Shaker Heights Police Department (SHPD) announce the first phase of work related to the review and reform of certain police policies and practices.
This work is part of the ongoing transformation and modernization of the SHPD that began in 2016 with the appointment of Police Chief Jeffrey DeMuth. This past summer, following the killing of George Floyd, Mayor Weiss signed the Obama Foundation Pledge, recognizing the urgency and importance of further review and revision of specific police practices, and committing to engaging the community in this process.
The review of the policies in this first phase is complete and the actions being taken as a result are summarized in this document. Revised policies, including the City’s Response to Threats Policy (also known as Use of Force Policy), will be finalized by November 30.
“Council and I consider the revisions undertaken in this phase of work to be among the most critical in our ongoing efforts to align policies and practices with the goals and expectations of the police department, which include the fair, just and equal application of the law,” said Mayor David Weiss.
“We are appreciative of the many residents and organizations that engaged with us during this period of heightened focus on police practices. Their willingness to collaborate with the Police Chief and officers helped to inform the revisions we have undertaken. I can say with confidence that the Shaker Heights police officers look forward to working in partnership with residents on this important work. They are committed to living up to the high standards they have for themselves and that the community has for them,” said Weiss.