An Akron, Ohio, Police Department school resource officer is under investigation after being caught on surveillance video punching a student in the head multiple times. He has been asked not to return to Firestone Community Learning Center following the release of the footage.
According to a news release from Akron Public Schools, the incident occurred on October 16 during routine morning metal detector checks. “There was an interaction between a student and the SRO, which ultimately resulted in the officer using force against the student,” the release stated.
The police report indicates that the student was asked multiple times to go through the metal detector, which initially “glowed red and beeped after he went through.” The officer reportedly wanted to ensure the student was not carrying any weapons to keep the school safe.
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The situation escalated when the student appeared to try pushing past two officers, prompting them to attempt to detain him, as shown in the surveillance video. After informing the student he was under arrest, an officer grabbed his arms to handcuff him, at which point the student began resisting.
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Following roughly 25 seconds of struggling, the officer punched the student three times on the side of his head with a closed fist, according to the report. The punches brought the student to the ground, where officers handcuffed him before escorting him from the school without further incident. It was later learned that the student had a cell phone, which is not permitted at school.
Superintendent Michael Robinson reviewed the footage and deemed the officer’s actions unacceptable. “We deeply value our partnership with law enforcement and the crucial role SROs play in ensuring student safety and building community trust,” Robinson said. “At the same time, it is essential that accountability is upheld when incidents like this occur. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our highest priority.”
The district has since “formally requested the permanent removal of the SRO,” according to the release. The officer has been placed on administrative leave, and Akron police have initiated an internal use-of-force review.
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