COLUMBUS—Today, Senator Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) presented sponsor testimony on legislation to improve community and police relations in Ohio. Senate Bill 23 would establish the Community Police Relations Commission, require training in community focused de-escalation techniques and require the collection of data on the use of force and racial interaction in Ohio.

COLUMBUS—The Ohio Senate recently announced that State Senator Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) has been appointed to serve as Ranking Member of the Senate Criminal Justice Committee and State and Local Committee for the 131^st General Assembly.  

Columbus – Today, Senator Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) presented Cincinnati resident Hope Dudley with an Ohio Senate Proclamation  for her community activism to raise awareness about the criminal justice system following the death of her son. She was honored with the Social Justice Award at Ohio’s 30^th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Celebration held at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Columbus. The annual awards program recognizes the service and achievements of Ohio residents and organizations in areas consistent with the teachings and example of Dr. King.

Cincinnati – The Cincinnati Initiative to Reduce Violence (CIRV) was credited for its role in the reduction of violent crime in the city this week at a press conference featuring Mayor John Cranley, Police Chief Jeff Blackwell, and City Manager Harry Black. Senator Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati) was instrumental in the creation of CIRV, helped secure its funding, and was a steadfast supporter of the organization during his time on City Council.

Columbus –Today, State Senator Cecil Thomas (D-North Avondale) took the oath of office to serve in the Ohio Senate for the 131^st General Assembly.  Senator Thomas will represent the 9^thSenate District that encompasses Cincinnati, Hollydale, St. Bernard, Elmwood Place, Norwood, Golf Manor, North College Hill, Mount Healthy, Wyoming, Lincoln Heights, Silverton, and Springfield Township.