East Cleveland has seen a major shakeup in its police department as Mayor Lateek Shabazz took decisive action, firing Acting Police Chief Kenneth Lundy over several violations. "When I came in, I promised to reform the police department, and that's what I'm doing right now," Shabazz said, as reported by News 5 Cleveland. The mayor's move underscores his pledge to rectify the department and ensure adherence to civil service laws.
The city's investigation concluded that Lundy's promotions and appointment were inconsistent with Ohio civil service laws and East Cleveland ordinances. According to a release from the city, his initial appointment in 2016 and subsequent promotions lacked the required competitive civil service examinations, as was detailed in WKYC. This revelation points toward a potential liability risk for East Cleveland, prompting the administration to act swiftly.
Lundy was informed of his immediate termination through a letter, which coincided with ongoing concerns about the legality of his continued service. "According to the review, Mr. Lundy was originally appointed in June 2016 and promoted through the ranks of sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and, most recently, Acting Chief of Police on January 2, 2024 — none of which adhered to the required competitive civil service examinations," detailed a news release from the mayor's office, as obtained by FOX8.
Reverend Anthony Small of the Starlight Missionary Baptist Church expressed dismay about the decision, indicating a desire for more inclusion in such critical discussions. "When the original East Cleveland Council got together, the preachers, they swore at city hall that we would be at the table with them," Small recounted. However, Small lamented, "They don’t want to hear from us, but we’re not in the political game. Our thing is people," he told News 5 Cleveland. Shabazz reassured residents despite the upheaval, asserting, "I don’t want people to think that they don’t have protection," hinting at future plans to restore the image and functionality of the city's police force.
While the dismissal has rippled through the community, the mayor remains committed to installing leadership that adheres strictly to legal and ethical standards. The search for Lundy's replacement is expected to unfold in the coming days, as East Cleveland navigates through this moment of administrative and community tension.
