Donovan Lewis Family Mourns: Columbus Police Change Warrant Policy Following Fatal Shooting

When arrest warrants serve in Columbus, police are changing.

Following the fatal shooting of unarmed Black man Donavan Lewis last week in Columbus. The Columbus Division of Police serves most arrest warrants at different times.
Officer Ricky Anderson of the Columbus Police Department fatally shot Lewis. In the early hours of 2 a.m. on August 30 while serving an arrest warrant at a Hilltop apartment.

According to a memo distributed by Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant on Thursday. “No pre-planned arrest warrants for any misdemeanor offense, including domestic violence, or non-violent felony offenses shall be served between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. at private residences without the prior approval of a lieutenant or higher.”

Police arrested Lewis on felony charges of improper firearm handling. And for the misdemeanor charges of domestic violence and assault.

SWAT teams and other tactical units will be exempt from the new warrant policy. Overnight warrants could also be served in “dangerous, urgent circumstances,” according to Bryant.

The memo made no mention of the shooting of Lewis. “This in no way diminishes the outstanding work you do.” The notices continued, “but it does change how you do it temporarily.” “As I previously stated, I support you and will always look for ways to assist you in doing your job safely and effectively.”