Ohio Officer Rehired After Previous Termination Shoots Teen Holding Toy Gun
The incident in Akron, which left a 15-year-old boy injured, has sparked calls for the officer's dismissal amid an ongoing investigation.
- Officer Ryan Westlake, previously fired for policy violations, shot Tavion Koonce-Williams who was holding a toy gun.
- Body camera footage shows the teen repeatedly stating the gun was fake before being shot in the wrist.
- The shooting has led to widespread criticism, with activists and the teen's family calling for accountability.
- Westlake was on paid leave as state officials and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation conduct inquiries.
- The incident has reignited debates on police conduct and the treatment of Black youth in law enforcement interactions.