News Beat

December 16, 2024

Cuyahoga County Faces Surge in Food Stamp Theft Amid Uncertain Federal Reimbursement

Cuyahoga County is experiencing a significant increase in electronic benefits theft, with 1,199 reports filed by mid-December—the highest monthly total to date. This surge coincides with the impending expiration of federal reimbursement funds designated for victims. Since mid-2023, Ohio has reimbursed over $12.6 million in stolen benefits using federal funds; however, this support is set to end on December 20 unless Congress intervenes. Advocates are calling for enhanced security measures, such as embedding chips in EBT cards, to combat the sophisticated fraud tactics employed by criminal rings.

Summit Food Service Approved for Cuyahoga County Jail Despite History of Complaints

Summit Food Service LLC has been awarded a three-year, $18 million contract to provide meals at the Cuyahoga County Jail, replacing the current vendor, Trinity Services Group. Summit has faced previous accusations of unsanitary conditions and nutritionally inadequate meals in facilities across the nation, including allegations of rodent infestations and poor food quality. Despite these concerns, the Cuyahoga County Public Safety & Justice Affairs Committee unanimously approved the contract.

Siblings Fatally Shot in Euclid Apartment Complex

A tragic incident occurred in Euclid, Ohio, where two siblings were fatally shot at an apartment complex. The double homicide took place shortly after 7 p.m. during a gathering. An 18-year-old woman has been detained in connection with the shootings. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the deaths, and an investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy.

Akron Community Mourns 15-Year-Old Fatally Shot by Police

The Akron community is mourning the death of 15-year-old Jazmir Tucker, who was fatally shot by police on Thanksgiving night. Body camera footage of the incident has been released, raising concerns and prompting calls for accountability. Protests and vigils have been held, with community members and some Akron City Council members seeking answers and transparency regarding the circumstances of the shooting.

Summit County Receives $9.1 Million for High Level Bridge Reconstruction

Summit County has secured over $9.1 million in federal funding to design and construct a new bridge connecting Akron and Cuyahoga Falls. The current High Level Bridge, which opened in 1949, is slated for decommissioning due to its aging infrastructure. The funding comprises allocations from the Local Major Bridge Program and Community Project Funding, aiming to maintain vital connections between the county’s largest cities.