St. Clair Today

State Representative Jay DeBoyer has criticized the leadership of the Michigan State Police (MSP) for disclosing the identities of officers involved in a deposition by the Michigan House. The revelation came to light when DeBoyer learned that the Michigan press corps had obtained this information, which was initially known only to the House's legal counsel and MSP.

"I know for a fact that nobody in my office, our caucus legal counsel, or I revealed this information to the press, and that makes the culprit in this case rather obvious," DeBoyer stated. He expressed concern over MSP's leadership revealing officer identities, particularly as it relates to an investigation into alleged misconduct among MSP's top officials. "That MSP’s top brass revealed identities of officers within their department is rather ironic, considering the whole reason for these depositions is for us to get a better picture of how some of MSP’s highest command officers failed the men and women who serve under them. Their effort to undermine the Legislature’s investigation is despicable."

The investigation by the Michigan House began following accusations against senior MSP officials, including Director Colonel James Grady and Lieutenant Colonel Aimee Brimacombe. These allegations led to a significant vote of "no confidence" from 98.5% of troopers and 90% of command officers in a poll conducted by their association. Allegations include favoritism in promotions, inappropriate salary bonuses, and restrictive policies affecting trooper duties.

DeBoyer emphasized efforts made by the House Oversight Committee to protect officer privacy during their investigation: “Throughout our investigation into MSP’s misconduct, the House Oversight Committee has made very careful efforts to protect the privacy of the officers coming forward,” he said.

The disclosure by MSP's leadership has reinforced calls for legislative oversight within Michigan's law enforcement agency. DeBoyer remarked on accountability issues stating: “This has only reaffirmed our belief that this department needs legislative oversight. Michigan’s top law enforcement officials must be held accountable, and if Governor Whitmer won’t do it, we will have to.”

As scrutiny continues over these developments within MSP ranks, Rep. DeBoyer insists that investigations will proceed despite complications arising from recent events.