EAST CLEVELAND, Ohio (WJW) — East Cleveland‘s safety director has been fired from his appointed position after a series of incidents, including one in which he is alleged to have worn a badge labeled “Chief of Police.”
President of Fairview Park Council resigns following Charlie Kirk comments
A letter dated Sept. 12 from Mayor Lateek Shabazz to Mansell Baker, who is referred to in the letter as “Deputy Safety Director,” states that Baker has been terminated from the role, effective immediately.
According to the letter, the termination follows “multiple incidents” in which the mayor says Baker acted “outside the scope” of his appointment, including:
- Altering your oath of office to reflect the title “Safety Director,” which was notconferred.
- Wearing a badge labeled “Chief of Police.”
- Taking home a city-issued police vehicle in violation of city ordinance.
- Engaging in a vehicular pursuit across municipal boundaries, ending in Euclid,despite East Cleveland police terminating pursuit at the city’s border withCleveland.
- Wearing a firearm on city property and responding to 911 calls while dressed intactical gear, despite lacking police authority or commission.
“These actions reflect a pattern of conduct inconsistent with the responsibilities andlimitations of your appointed role,” the mayor wrote in the letter. “Effective immediately, you are relieved of all duties and responsibilities associated with the Office of the Deputy Safety Director. Access to city systems, facilities, and communications shall be revoked.”
Baker later released a statement to FOX 8 News saying, “I will continue to support our city officials, residents, and business community. I remain fully dedicated to the East Cleveland community. After spearheading many major incidents and handling the Labor Day weekend successfully, I can see where the change occurred after the election results. My first responsibility is to the residents! They deserve the best, they deserve a safe community, and forward-thinking leadership. Well wishes to the staff who continue to work so hard and push through, despite leadership dynamics. Certainly, I remain thankful for the opportunity to have served!”…