Akron Mayor Shammas Malik has chosen a successor to former Chief City Prosecutor Craig Morgan.
Effective July 13, Jessica Connell assumed the role vacated by Morgan following his appointment to public safety chief in January.
Connell has served as a public defender, assistant prosecutor, police legal advisor and, most recently, as the city’s domestic violence and community prosecutor, the city said in a July 13 press release.
Elayna Saad, who was serving as interim chief prosecutor, will resume her role as deputy chief prosecutor. In a prepared statment, Malik thanked Saad for “her outstanding leadership over the past several months.”
“I am honored by Mayor Malik’s confidence in me and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Akron’s Chief City Prosecutor,” said Connell in a prepared statement. “Throughout my career, I have been committed to pursuing justice with integrity, supporting victims, and working collaboratively with our law enforcement and community partners. I look forward to leading this talented team as we continue our work to protect the safety and well-being of Akron residents.”
In her new role, Connell will — under the direction of law director Brian Angeloni — oversee the prosecution of misdemeanor offense on behalf of Akron and surrounding communities, the city said. Under her supervision, a team of assistant prosecutors and legal interns will provide legal instruction for the Akron Police Department’s basic academy, and continuing professional training for all sworn officers.
“Connell will continue working closely and providing legal advice to the Akron Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to ensure the fair and effective administration of justice,” the city said.
In 2020, Connell joined Akron’s Law Department and has served in several key leadership roles, including overseeing the Domestic Violence Unit, supervising assistant prosecutors and working with law enforcement agencies throughout Summit County. She serves on the Domestic Violence Coalition and Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board, has successfully secured grant funding to support prosecution and victim services, and volunteers with Akron Pride.
“Jessica has earned the respect of her colleagues, law enforcement partners, and the courts through her professionalism, integrity, and commitment to justice,” said Malik. “She brings a wealth of courtroom experience, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of our community. I am confident she will lead the Prosecutor’s Office with fairness, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to keeping Akron residents safe.”
Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com or 330-541-9413.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Jessica Connell named new chief city prosecutor for Akron
Reporting by Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
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By Derek Kreider, Akron Beacon Journal | USA TODAY Network
