East Cleveland

Early voting begins Tuesday in some parts of Cuyahoga County for the Sept. 9 primary. Here's what to know.

The Ohio Court of Appeals ruled in a split decision Thursday that Lateek Shabazz, the City Council President, would assume the role after former Mayor Brandon King was convicted on corruption charges in May.

King is also permanently barred from holding public office, but the prosecutor's office has argued he remains suspended until his appeals are exhausted or a new mayor is elected.

Erica Campbell's testimony in an April hearing lead to the reversal of the 2019 murder conviction of Jerry Sims in East Cleveland.

King and Smith, a former council member, were convicted of corruption-related charges on May 29, 2025.

The power struggle appears to stem from a conflict between the city charter and the state law

King was facing 12 felony and misdemeanor counts related to contracts between the city and two companies owned by King’s family.

Sandra Morgan is seeking to pass a budget, expand the police department, conduct forensic audits of city government and avoid bankruptcy.

The charges stem from city contracts and payments King authorized to businesses he and his family members owned, according to the release.

East Cleveland City Council President Twon Billings said low morale has reduced the ranks of East Cleveland police to dangerous levels.