Lawsuit Alleges Excessive Force and Systemic Failures by the City of Akron Following the 2024 Killing of Michael Jones
AKRON, Ohio — DiCello Levitt has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit seeking not less than $10 million on behalf of the family of Michael Donnell Jones, a father who was shot and killed by an Akron police officer during an August 2024 encounter at a gas station.
The lawsuit, Darnell Jones, Individually and as Administrator of the Estate of Michael Jones, Deceased v. City of Akron, Ohio, et al., Case No. 5:26-cv-01942, was filed Aug. 17, 2026, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, Eastern Division. It names the City of Akron, senior police supervisors, and Officers Michael Novak and Nakoa Anderson as defendants.
According to the complaint, Mr. Jones was sitting alone in a U-Haul truck when Novak and Anderson approached him. The lawsuit alleges that the officers did not explain the basis for the stop before ordering Mr. Jones out of the vehicle and telling him he was under arrest. As the U-Haul began moving, Novak entered the vehicle and fired two shots into Mr. Jones’ side.
The complaint alleges that Mr. Jones had not brandished a weapon, threatened anyone, or acted aggressively before he was shot.
“The family of Michael Jones does not celebrate having to hold officers accountable. They wish the City of Akron would do that. Still, they are grateful for having their day in court, when the officers who killed Michael will have to face a jury for the reckless decisions they made,” said DiCello Levitt Partner Bobby DiCello, who represents Mr. Jones’ family.
The lawsuit asserts claims for excessive force, supervisory liability, and municipal liability under Monell v. Department of Social Services. It alleges systemic failures involving officer discipline, training, de-escalation, and supervision and seeks judgment of not less than $10 million, including compensatory and punitive damages, equitable relief, attorneys’ fees, and costs.
About DiCello Levitt
DiCello Levitt LLP is one of the leading plaintiffs’ law firms in the United States. Nationally recognized for our work in high-stakes class actions, mass torts, and complex litigation, we have recovered more than $25 billion for clients, including individuals, businesses, and communities. We take on some of the world’s most powerful interests, pursuing justice that reshapes industries and improves lives.
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Caitlin Whitehurst, Director of Communications
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