Mother of Fallen Euclid Officer Urges President Trump to Demand DOJ Investigation into Son’s Death

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On May 11, 2025, Dawn Derbin, mother of fallen Euclid Police Officer Jacob Derbin, issued a public appeal to former President Donald J. Trump, requesting his assistance in advocating for a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into her son's death. Officer Derbin was fatally shot on May 11, 2024, while responding to a domestic disturbance call in Euclid, Ohio.

"I’m begging President Trump...as a father, a patriot, and someone who has always stood by law enforcement, our military, and the truth," said Derbin. "My son Jacob was a proud police officer, a dedicated Ohio National Guard Specialist, a loving son, and a true American Hero. He deserves justice. Over the past year, I’ve poured every ounce of my heart into piecing together every detail of his case—painstakingly and alone."

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) conducted an investigation into the incident, concluding that Officer Derbin was ambushed and killed by suspect Deshawn Vaughn, who later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound during a standoff with police. A Cuyahoga County Grand Jury reviewed the case and returned a no-bill, indicating insufficient evidence to indict any officers involved.

Despite these findings, Dawn Derbin has raised concerns about the thoroughness and transparency of the investigation. She alleges that critical evidence, including body and dash camera footage, has gone missing, and questions remain about potential procedural failures and the possibility of friendly fire.

"This isn’t just about my son," Derbin added. "It’s about restoring trust in law enforcement, protecting those who serve with honor, and making sure no other family endures the indescribable heartbreak of a system that failed to tell the truth."

The Euclid Police Department has stated that it fully cooperated with the BCI investigation and has fulfilled public records requests related to the case. They have also honored Officer Derbin's memory through various tributes, including lowering flags to half-staff and participating in Police Memorial Week ceremonies.

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