COLUMBUS, Ohio – Against a backdrop of increased scrutiny on law enforcement across Ohio, Attorney General Dave Yost has released a report detailing the work of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) in handling officer-involved critical incidents (OICIs). The report outlines the process and outcomes of 329 investigations conducted between January 2019 and December 31, 2024, while addressing ongoing efforts to ensure transparency in cases involving police use of force.
329 Investigations, Few Indictments
The report reveals that BCI initiated 329 OICI investigations over the five-year period, focusing on incidents involving law enforcement use of force resulting in injury or death, as well as deaths occurring under certain conditions in custody. However, BCI investigates only when formally requested by local, state, or federal agencies. Critics have questioned whether this approach provides enough independence to build public trust, particularly in cases where local departments face allegations of misconduct.
Of the 329 cases:
- 28 investigations remain active.
- 42 were presented to grand juries, with 37 resulting in no charges.
- Four cases led to felony indictments, and one resulted in a misdemeanor indictment.
The report highlights notable cases, including the conviction of Columbus Police Officer Adam Coy for murder and reckless homicide, and Butler Township Police Officer Todd Stanley’s conviction for misdemeanor assault. Several high-profile cases remain pending, including charges against officers in Blendon and Highland Townships.
Transparency Efforts
The Attorney General’s office has introduced measures aimed at improving transparency in the handling of OICIs. According to the report, case files from 92 incidents involving fatalities have been published online for public access. Non-fatal cases can be accessed through public records requests, although files are redacted to comply with Ohio’s Sunshine laws.
These transparency initiatives are part of an effort to build public trust in the investigative process. Still, some critics argue that delays in releasing information and limitations on accessing non-fatal case details hinder meaningful accountability.
Scrutiny of Police Practices
The report comes at a time when several Ohio police departments are under heightened scrutiny for alleged excessive force and corruption. High-profile incidents in major cities, including Columbus and Cleveland, have sparked public outcry and calls for greater accountability. Advocates have pointed to the relatively low number of indictments from BCI’s investigations as evidence that systemic reforms are needed.
Critics also question the reliance on requests from local agencies to trigger investigations. Without a mandate for independent reviews, they argue, the system risks undermining public confidence.
Balancing Transparency and Accountability
The report highlights ongoing efforts by BCI to provide training and guidance to law enforcement agencies on handling OICIs, including the development of best practices for investigations. However, the broader debate over how to balance transparency, accountability, and public safety continues to shape discussions on police reform in Ohio.
As the state grapples with these challenges, the report serves as both a record of progress and a reminder of the work that remains in building trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.