After a Black man is fatally shot in bed by officers, Ohio police change policy on late-night warrants

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September 9, 2022

By Antonio Planas, NBC News

Donovan Lewis’ girlfriend holds his picture during a rally at the Columbus Division of Police headquarters on Sept. 2. (Gaelen Morse / Getty Images)

Less than two weeks after an officer in Ohio fatally shot a Black man who was in bed while executing an arrest warrant, the Columbus police chief on Thursday issued a policy change about warrants served late at night.

Chief Elaine Bryant is directing the Columbus Division of Police to seek high-level approval for some warrants served between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., according to a memo sent to all sworn personnel.

Donovan Lewis, 20, was fatally shot about 2:30 a.m. Aug. 30 while police executed a felony arrest warrant for alleged improper handling of a firearm, domestic violence and assault.

“Effective immediately and until revised or rescinded by me, no pre-planned arrest warrants shall be served at private residences for all misdemeanor offenses (including domestic violence) and non-violent felony offenses between the hours of 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM without the prior approval of a lieutenant or above,” the memo said.

The memo added: “Pre-planned means the sole reason you have decided to go to the address is to serve an arrest warrant. This policy does not apply to tactical units, for example, SWAT, In/Tac, and task force personnel.”

Read about the events that inspired this change.

A similar home invasion in Louisville led to the death of Breonna Taylor. The cops who murdered her and conspired to cover it up have since been charged.

Find similar stories in our breaking news archive.

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