Akron's police auditor to investigate property damage caused by police officers

Akron’s police auditor is investigating property damage caused by police officers – and whether the city is properly handling residents’ claims.

Anthony Finnell, who reviews use-of-force incidents and citizen complaints, said he has reviewed several incident reports and complaints in which officers caused property damage while responding to a call. In some cases, the city initially denied to compensate residents who reported damage, he said.

Finnell said he wants to conduct an audit of property damage claims over the past three years. During its meeting Wednesday, the Citizens’ Police Oversight Board voted unanimously to approve Finnell’s request to start the audit.

“The objective of this audit is to assess the handling of property damage claims arising from police actions, evaluate whe