Akron Police Officer Involved in Domestic Violence Incidents Reinstated Despite Shooting Teen

Akron police officer, shot, nearly cost Ryan Westlake his job when he was involved in two violent incidents with his girlfriend in December 2020 and January 2021. In the first incident, Westlake's girlfriend told police that he threw her into a coffee table, pinned her down, and struck her, but she declined to press charges. In the second incident, she said he pushed her to the ground, hit her in the eye, and threatened to kill her and her father. Westlake was charged with domestic violence and aggravated menacing, but the charges were later dismissed and expunged.

Despite these incidents, Westlake was reinstated as an Akron police officer after being suspended for 71 days. The incidents have raised questions about why Westlake was still on the job when he shot 15-year-old Tavion Koonce Williams on April 1. The shooting is under investigation by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, and the Akron Citizen's Police Oversight Board will also review the case.

Why this matters: This case highlights the ongoing issue of police officers involved in domestic violence incidents remaining on the force and the potential consequences for public safety. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of disciplinary measures and oversight in holding officers accountable for their actions.

The Akron Police Department has not commented on the specifics of Westlake's case, citing the ongoing investigations. However, the department stated that it takes allegations of officer misconduct seriously and will cooperate fully with the external reviews. The outcome of the investigations into both the domestic violence incidents and the shooting of Tavion Koonce Williams will likely have significant implications for Westlake's future with the department and could lead to further scrutiny of the department's handling of officer misconduct cases.

Key Takeaways

• Akron officer Ryan Westlake involved in 2 domestic violence incidents in 2020-21.
• Charges were later dismissed and expunged, but Westlake was reinstated as an officer.
• Westlake shot 15-year-old Tavion Koonce Williams on April 1, under investigation.
• Akron PD takes allegations of officer misconduct seriously, will cooperate with reviews.
• Investigations may have significant implications for Westlake's future with the department.