Cleveland City Councilman Joe Jones is Sorry

Ward 1 Councilman Joe Jones Credit: Cleveland City Council

Roughly two weeks after news broke of misconduct allegations against Cleveland City Councilman Joe Jones, the Ward 1 representative released his first statement to the public, expressing remorse that his actions and words caused discomfort to the accusers.

“The last few weeks have been very challenging for me personally and professionally,” Jones wrote in a statement released Thursday afternoon. “Although unintended, I recognize that my actions have made others feel uncomfortable, and I sincerely apologize. I’ve learned a lot about myself and I feel a deep sense of remorse.

“The fact that these allegations have clouded my service to the community and my residents is heartbreaking,” he added. “Serving my constituents every day is a privilege, and my top priority remains serving the residents of Ward 1 and enhancing the quality of life for every citizen of Cleveland.”

In accusations stemming back to the summer of 2022, Jones had been accused of least five incidents of inappropriate behavior—from “accidentally” grazing a coworker’s breast to shouting at an employee to making flirtatious remarks to a muralist during a meeting last May.

Council President Blaine Griffin, who initially refused to identify Jones as the subject of the investigation, had hired a law firm to look into the accusations, which culminated in a report that found the allegations credible. Griffin released a summary of the findings this week but has declined to release the full investigation.

Jones refused to be interviewed by the law firm and has declined comment to all local media in recent weeks.

Jones did, however, resign from all committee appointments. He can still vote in regular Council meetings of the whole.

As per the recommendations and findings from the law firm, Jones will “participate in comprehensive sensitivity and professional conduct training,” a release said.

Council does not seem to be pursuing Jones’ removal from his seat anytime soon. Elections for Cleveland’s revised 15 wards will go on as planned, with Jones still able to run.

“Councilman Jones deeply appreciates the patience and understanding of his colleagues and the community,” that statement added. “His dedication to Ward 1 and the City of Cleveland remains unwavering.”