CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Metropolitan Housing Authority police have denied withholding evidence from the city of Cleveland in regards to the mayor's grandson.
CMHA released the following statement:
"The Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) supports the actions of its Police Department. The Assistant City Prosecutor was briefed on the matter and was provided all pertinent facts. He gave a cursory review of the investigation file and decided not to prosecute. CMHA’s Police Department did not withhold any evidence nor was any additional evidence requested by the Assistant Prosecutor. CMHA will continue to work collaboratively with the City of Cleveland’s Prosecutor’s Office to serve the best interests of the community."
The Cleveland Law Department defended its decision not to charge Frank Q. Jackson, 22, in connection to an alleged assault of an 18-year-old woman in June.
The grand jury indicted Jackson on Sept. 6
In a felony review form, the Cleveland Law Department explained it didn't have enough evidence and reported the victim declined to move forward in pressing charges—even though a CHMA police report detailed the attack, presented pictures of the alleged victims injuries and contained a statement from a witness at the scene.
Cleveland Law Department Criminal Division Chief Karrie D. Howard issued a statement explaining why his office didn't pursue charges against Frank Q. Jackson even though the county made it clear it had enough evidence:
"The Assistant Prosecutors in the office take this responsibility seriously. Every charging decision is made based on the facts and evidence presented to an Assistant Prosecutor by a presenting law enforcement official. The City Prosecutor’s Office does not receive, and has not received, any influence or interference by anyone in the Mayor’s Office on this or any other case.It is now clear that the matter at issue in the media was presented by a CMHA detective who failed to provide ALL the evidence related to this matter. When facts and evidence are withheld, such as the video released yesterday, an educated and informed decision cannot be made."
RELATED: Cleveland Law Department defends decision to not charge Mayor's grandson
Jackson is charged with felonious assault, abduction and two counts of failure to comply.
He was released on Monday after posting 10% on his $25,000 bond.
