By Joanna Putman
Police1
AKRON, Ohio — Newly released body camera video shows an officer-involved shooting of a 15-year-old holding a model gun, Cleveland.com reported.
The incident occurred on April 1 after a 911 caller reported that a person was pointing a gun at houses. Officer Ryan Westlake responded to the scene, according to the report.
Video shows Westlake telling the 15-year-old to drop the weapon. He fired a shot at the juvenile, striking his hand.
After the shooting occurred, the juvenile complied with all instructions while shouting that the gun was fake. Westlake handcuffed the juvenile before providing medical aid.
Click below to see full video.
“In an effort to be as transparent as possible, we are releasing both the body camera footage showing the officer’s entire interaction with the adolescent who was shot, and the officer’s personnel file,” Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said in a statement. “We will continue to be transparent and communicative as the process unfolds.”
The Akron police union has expressed its support for the officer involved. Through a statement obtained by WEWS, they conveyed their confidence that the officer’s conduct will ultimately be considered justified.
“This is an extremely difficult situation for everyone involved. There is always a concern each time an officer is faced with the incredibly challenging, split-second decision to defend himself and others against an armed suspect. Our officers work hard every day to keep the community safe. Unfortunately, there are times when an officer is faced with the complex decision to use lethal force,” the union said in the statement.
“We are confident when all the facts are released, our officer’s actions will be deemed justified,” the statement added.