Carl Jones, 75, grandfather of slain Officer Kevin Crayon, is flanked by Officer Timothy Pappas (left), who was shot by a suspect in November, and Spc. Andrew Nogueira, who was shot during April's rioting. (Glenn Hartong photos) | ZOOM |

        The brother of a black officer killed on the job last year challenged Cincinnati's black residents Friday to support police.

        Keith Albright, 32, brother of police officer Kevin Crayon, 40, spoke at the annual Police Memorial Day observance to honor officers killed in the line of duty.

        More than 1,000 police supporters — believed to be a record for the event that began in 1962 — packed Fountain Square and marched with police in a steady rain to the Police Memorial on Ezzard Charles Drive, where Officer Crayon and his family were honored.

        “There is a perception in the African-American community that the police are racist — and that's not true,” Mr. Albright said. “There are a lot of African-American people in this city. They need to be here to support the police.”

        Officer Crayon was killed Sept. 1 when he was dragged to death by a car as he shot the 12-year-old driver.

Police recruits lead officers along Central Parkway. | ZOOM |

        About two dozen protesters heckled speakers or waved signs. Four protesters were arrested on minor charges.

        They were quickly drowned out by applause.

        But, the placards they held stated bitter feelings about police and the shooting of Timothy Thomas by Officer Stephen Roach 42 days ago that triggered rioting in the city.

        Signs read: “Misdemeanors for a Murderer,” “Stop Killing Us — Or Else,” “No Racist Police” and “Racism is Alive and Well in Cincinnati.”

        Placards supported police too: “Back the Blue” and “Support Our Police.”

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