Akron Officer Removed After Student Incident

An Akron Police officer has been placed on administrative duty following a violent incident involving a 16-year-old student at Firestone Community Learning Center, where the officer was recorded striking the student in the head during an arrest. The altercation escalated after the student attempted to bypass metal detectors, leading to a confrontation with officers. Mayor Shammas Malik expressed his dismay over the video, stating the situation was 'upsetting' and acknowledging that the incident may have stemmed from the student being found with a cell phone, a violation of school policy. The school district has requested the officer's permanent removal from the SRO position, emphasizing the need for accountability while recognizing the importance of law enforcement in schools. The student was initially charged with resisting arrest and other offenses, but these charges have since been dismissed without prejudice. The investigation into the use of force continues as the city reviews its policies on such incidents.