Brian Harding

Mayor Shammas Malik swore in 29 new police officers and two fire department arson investigators Friday upon their graduation from the Akron Police Academy. The graduating class's training had an emphasis on community engagement, according to police officials.

Akron police are continuing to investigate the early summer mass shooting that killed one person and injured 28 others. The city is also spreading awareness on how to throw community events and block parties safely.

Harding has served as acting chief since January, when former Akron Police Chief Steve Mylett retired. His swearing in follows a tumultuous search.

The city's search for a new chief has been criticized for its lack of diverse candidates.

The city previously announced the search was down to two internal candidates: Acting Chief Brian Harding and Deputy Chief Jesse Leeser.