The family of Jayland Walker, a Black man fatally shot by police in 2022, will receive a $4.8 million settlement from the city of Akron. The city announced the settlement on Monday, which follows a federal lawsuit filed by Walker’s family accusing the police of excessive force and fostering a “culture of violence and racism” within the department.
The incident that led to Walker’s death occurred on June 27, 2022. What began as a routine traffic stop quickly escalated when officers noticed a broken taillight on Walker’s vehicle. When Walker failed to stop, police pursued him, eventually leading to a foot chase after Walker exited his moving car. According to police reports, Walker fired at least one shot out of his car window during the pursuit.
Walker was shot 46 times by eight officers who fired a total of 94 bullets during the encounter. The Ohio attorney general, Dave Yost, stated that officers believed Walker was about to fire at them again after he reached toward his waistband during the chase. However, attorneys representing Walker’s family disputed this, claiming that while Walker may have fired a shot, it was not aimed at anyone.
The incident ignited protests across Akron, with many calling for police reform and accountability. Despite the public outcry, a grand jury declined to indict the officers involved. The officers, who had been placed on leave, were later reinstated to active duty, further fueling tensions within the community.
Policy Changes and Moving Forward After the Death of Jayland Walker
Bobby DiCello, one of the family’s attorneys, emphasized that the settlement represents more than just financial compensation. “There’s more to the settlement than money. The family accomplished meaningful policy changes with its litigation efforts,” DiCello stated. One of these changes includes Akron’s revision of its vehicle pursuit policy. Officers are no longer permitted to chase vehicles for minor equipment violations, a significant shift in response to the tragic events.
As discussions between the city, the family, and the broader community continue, the Walker family remains committed to pushing for further reforms within the Akron Police Department.