West Cleveland News

In a move to increase transparency and streamline access to information, Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost introduces changes to the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) training and records portal, providing detailed reasons for an officer's separation and expanded visibility into training records, with law enforcement officials praising the initiative for its potential to foster community trust. The initiative is being implemented with the intention of enhancing public trust in law enforcement through increased openness.

Attorney General Yost expressed his thoughts on the initiative in a press statement.

According to the press release, Yost said, "We want Ohio to continue setting the standard for good policing," he emphasized. He is highlighting the importance of transparency in law enforcement from an officer's initiation to retirement.

In response to this development, State Representative Brewer shared his views.

According to a press release, State Representative Brewer applauded Yost for the recent announcement regarding enhanced transparency for police officers in the state. While acknowledging the positive step, Rep. Brewer spoke of the ongoing need for further efforts. He expressed hope that the public records portion, now detailing reasons for officers' separation, would contribute to retaining quality officers and preventing individuals with questionable records from serving in law enforcement. Rep. Brewer also praised the collective efforts of agency chiefs, county sheriffs, and advocacy groups in advocating for increased transparency in policing across Ohio.

Brewer reiterated his hopes regarding improvements in law enforcement practices due to this change.

According to a press release, Brewer also expressed hope that the public records portion, now detailing reasons for officers' separation, would contribute to retaining quality officers and preventing individuals with questionable records from serving in law enforcement. Rep. Brewer also praised the collective efforts of agency chiefs, county sheriffs, and advocacy groups in advocating for increased transparency in policing across Ohio.

Law enforcement authorities from Morrow County and Village of Strasburg Police Department also weighed in on the issue.

According to the press release, Sheriff John Hinton from Morrow County and Chief Dave Warrick from the Village of Strasburg Police Department both expressed the positive impact of these changes, noting that transparency fosters trust and streamlining information access facilitates efficient hiring processes.