AKRON, Ohio-Ryan Westlake, an Akron police officer placed on leave after shooting a 15-year-old last month, has been fired due to two unrelated use of force investigations. The first incident occurred on December 31, 2023, when Westlake allegedly used excessive force while detaining a suspect. He was charged with Conduct Unbecoming of an Akron Police Officer and violating procedures.
The second incident, on March 1, 2024, involved Westlake allegedly using unreasonable force while arresting a female suspect. He faced similar charges. The Akron Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards and Accountability deemed his actions not objectively reasonable. Westlake can appeal his termination to Mayor Shammas Malik, with the possibility of further appeal to arbitration through the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 7 Collective Bargaining Agreement.
https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/local/akron/akron-police-department-fires-officer-ryan-westlake-multiple-use-of-force-incidents-shot-tavion-koonce-williams/95-73c96867-9ac9-4982-be7f-79012bb20219
