How is Akron working to protect its health care workers?

The measure approved by Akron City Council at its September 15 meeting makes the menacing of a health care worker a first-degree misdemeanor.

Conviction brings a mandatory minimum sentence of three days in jail.

Health care workers exposed to work place violence are prone to increased risk of mental health issues, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Akron City Council took action to protect the city's health care workers amid reports of violence in hospitals here and nationwide.

Council unanimously approved an ordinance at its Sept. 15 meeting amending Akron's criminal code to strengthen the penalty for people who threaten health care professionals.

The measure makes menacing a health care worker a first-degree misdemeanor with a mandatory sentence of at least three days in j