Chief names Warren officers on leave after deadly police-involved shooting
WARREN, Ohio - The city of Warren's police chief has released the names of four officers who were placed on paid administrative leave following a deadly police-involved shooting Monday night.
Chief Eric Merkel said in a letter Thursday the officers placed on leave are Officer Michael Edwards, Officer William Fowler, Officer Brian Martinek and Officer Trevor Sumption.
They were placed on leave per policy while an investigation is conducted.
Police said they responded to a domestic disturbance just after 10 p.m. in the 2100 block of Hamiton Street SW August 3.
That's when they said officers began immediately began negotiating with 44-year-old David Rigg to resolve what they said was a volatile situation.
During this standoff, the Mahoning Valley Crisis Response Team (MVCRT) was called to respond to the scene to assist in the de-escalation efforts.
Prior to MVCRT arrival, the chief said Mr. Rigg presented a deadly threat with a pistol.
Officers responded with deadly force.
"On behalf of the Warren Police Department, I extend our sincerest condolences to David’s family and friends for their loss. We are deeply saddened by this tragic event," said Chief Merkel.
The chief goes on to say in the letter that the gravity of police use of deadly force and its impact on the deceased’s family, the involved officers, the department and the entire community cannot be overstated.
"Transparency and accountability are critical to the relationship between this police department and our community. This incident is under investigation both criminally and administratively," according to the chief.
The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, an outside, independent agency, is conducting the criminal investigation.
The Warren Police Department will conduct a separate administrative investigation to ensure compliance with all departmental policies and procedures.
This administrative process will also evaluate existing policy, training, tactics and how each relates to best policing standards.
"While these investigations proceed, I am asking for your patience and trust in the investigative process and your continued support of and confidence in our agency. We will continue to ensure that our policies reflect constitutional policing standards and best practices. We will remain committed to providing our officers with the most updated, scenario-based use of force and de-escalation training available. We will continue to provide crisis intervention training to our officers. Finally, in an effort to increase transparency and strengthen your trust, we will continue to pursue the implementation of body-worn cameras throughout our agency," said Chief Merkel.
