WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (OH-11) issued the following statement regarding the fact-finding report issued today by Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine on the Cleveland Police Department deadly force incident of November 29, 2012:

““I am disappointed with the Ohio Attorney General’s report on his review of the police shootings of Timothy Russell and Malissa Williams on November 29, 2012.  A chronology of events is certainly welcomed, but without a thorough forensic investigation, drawing conclusions primarily based on interviews and suggesting only that “the system” was at fault leave much to be desired,” said Congresswoman Fudge.

“Most of us were aware before Attorney General DeWine’s investigation began, that a breakdown in the system occurred.  It was clearly evident.  The Attorney General stated that the purpose of his “investigation” was to gather facts and the State of Ohio was not asked by the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor, Timothy McGinty, or the City of East Cleveland (where the chase ended and the shootings by Cleveland Police occurred) to determine criminal culpability.  Yet, Mr. DeWine found the “System” at fault.”

“I am sure that changes in system response requirements have and will occur, but it is clear that the individual and collective exercise of sound judgment and prior training was not present during the events of November 29^th.  Accountability rests with people as well as systems, and cannot be minimized or overshadowed by the breakdowns in a system.”

“I am encouraged that Mr. McGinty has indicated he will present facts to a grand jury. Justice demands accountability for the tragic events of this incident,” concluded Congresswoman Fudge.