Ohio Police Need More 'Oversight, Accountability': Gov. DeWine

COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio law enforcement need more oversight and accountability to the public, Gov. Mike DeWine said on Tuesday.

During a new conference, DeWine outlined his plan to create a more equitable Ohio and to improve relations between police departments and the public they serve.

The governor said Ohio needs to:

• Improve law enforcement access to quality training;
• Enhance transparency between police and the public;
• Recruit more minorities to serve as officers; and
• Add more oversight to Ohio’s law enforcement agencies to ensure accountability

The governor said police officers need further training in de-escalation tactics, education on implicit bias and more guidelines on best practices for use of force. DeWine said the state must recruit more people of color into the ranks of law enforcement.

"The vast majority of police officers are doing a great job, but one bad apple ruins it for all of society," DeWine said.

The governor said he also needs to continue working with Ohio legislators on dismantling racism in the state and creating a more equitable life for all Ohioans.

"Race is indisputably a factor in all kinds of health, education, and economic disparities. The divisions of race have plagued this country since it's inception. While there are no simple solutions, we must be a positive voice in advancing change for all who are marginalized," DeWine said.

Protests against structural racism, in the wake of George Floyd's death in Minneapolis, have erupted across Ohio and the U.S. DeWine said state officials need to do more to create a more equitable Ohio.

"I believe that we all want the same things here. Our goal should always be to recognize that each of us has intrinsic dignity. Each of us has intrinsic worth — not for what we do, but simply for who we are," DeWine said.

Deploying the Ohio National Guard, Highway Patrol

The Ohio National Guard Response Force was deployed to Columbus and Cleveland, at the behest of Mayor Andrew Ginther and Mayor Frank Jackson, said Ohio National Guard Major General John Harris.

"We will treat everyone we come across in this mission with dignity and respect," Harris said during a news conference.

The National Guardsmen are there to protect "key assets" in each community and support law enforcement. Harris said minimum force will be used in all situations.

Protesting and demonstrating is appropriate and understandable, Gov. Mike DeWine said Tuesday. He said the vast majority of protesters in Ohio have been peaceful, and he condemned the small percentage of protesters who turned to violent unrest.

Mayors from across Ohio have also asked for aid from the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio National Guard to protect cities during protests,DeWine announced Tuesday. Cleveland, Cincinnati and Dayton are among many cities who have asked the highway patrol to ensure highways remain clear of protesters.