Akron is setting the stage for community-driven change in how mass gatherings are managed by inviting local voices to a forum set for February 25. According to a release from the City of Akron, this movement comes after an agreement to the Akron Bail Fund's lawsuit settlement, stemming from a 2023 incident. In his first year, Mayor Malik emphasized policy revision within the Akron Police Department (APD) and moved to update crowd management policies in response.
Spencer Fomby, a law enforcement consultant with experience, will assist the city in this endeavor. Having drafted new crowd management policy language for public critique, Fomby is set to gather feedback directly from residents at the upcoming forum, as detailed in the City of Akron's official announcement. Recognizing the delicate balance between public safety and First Amendment rights, Mayor Malik's administration seeks to "build trust between residents and the Akron Police Department," he noted in the same release. The local government believes that direct input from the people will help shape a policy that understands the nuances of protest and peacekeeping.
The venue for the forum is Garfield CLC, with Professor Brant Lee of The University of Akron School of Law taking on the moderator role. Yet, this is but a part of a bigger picture. Fomby's involvement, as revealed in his recent work "Public Order Policing: A Professional's Guide to International Theories, Case Studies, and Best Practices: Use of Force," according to the City of Akron, reflects his expertise and will guide the drafting process. In the past, Fomby has been at the forefront of developing tactical response standards and training programs across various law enforcement branches in the San Francisco Bay area.
Once Fomby's policy draft is ready, it will be publicized for a comment period of 60 days, ensuring feedback isn't limited to just the forum's attendees. Mayor Malik reiterated the city's stance on refining APD's approach: “This review is part of my administration’s larger commitment to strengthen our policies and procedures," he affirmed in the previous announcement by the City of Akron. The policy revamp represents a journey towards an equilibrium where the citizens' right to express dissent does not collide with law enforcement's duty to uphold decorum.
The dialogue between Akron's authorities and its people is an important juncture, with the public given a designated email address to submit their thoughts on the proposed policy changes. This collaborative initiative between Akron's leadership and the community aims toward more transparent and effective crowd management that respects the complexity of public expression and safety.
