Michael pelsozy <pelsozy@gmail.

com>

A Message from Police Chief Michael McGrath

1 message Mayor's Office of Communications <Communications@city.cleveland.oh.us> Wed, Jun 8, 2011 at 6:21 PM

From the desk of Chief Michael McGrath To our community partners:

Over the past month, there have been several media stories concerning the Division of Police and our use of non-deadly force while making arrests. Some of the stories might lead you to believe that the incidents are numerous and the uses of force excessive. The use of force is required in a very small percentage of arrests made by the Cleveland Division of Police. Our strict, clear guidelines and policies are effective and ensure the safety of the community and the officers.

On behalf of all the men and women of the Division of Police who serve the citizens of the City of Cleveland, I want to ensure you that we are dedicated and committed to delivering the best service possible. Each of us has taken an oath of office to protect and serve.

In the past 12-months, Cleveland Police Officers arrested more than 25,000 suspects for criminal acts. Some of those offenses are relatively minor, but others involve serious crimes including robbery, kidnapping, rape, burglary, and murder. Not everyone who commits a crime voluntarily surrenders to the commands of an officer. Sometimes, the use of some type of force is necessary.

The Cleveland Division of Police has a strict policy on the use of nondeadly force. Force, no matter how slight including a simple arm twist, must be reported. Even with 25,000 arrests, non-deadly force was required to be used in about 2 percent of all arrests.

Each and every incident is investigated and when officers violate our internal policies, there are consequences. I hold every officer accountable for their actions, regardless of their rank and assignment.

We take pride in who we are and what we do.

I assure you that the Division of Police will continue to serve this community with respect and dignity.

Michael McGrath, Chief

Cleveland Division of Police

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