Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison is pursuing the firing of an officer and a sergeant who violated department policy by calling Customs and Border Protection during two separate traffic stops, resulting in federal detentions. The incidents occurred on December 16 and February 9, and the chief emphasizes the department is not involved in immigration enforcement. The case is under review by the police board of commissioners.
A significant disciplinary action is underway within the Detroit Police Department as Chief Todd Bettison has announced his intention to fire two officers—a police officer and a sergeant—who allegedly broke department policy by involving Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during routine traffic stops.
The controversy centers around two separate traffic stops where the officers called CBP, which led to the individuals involved being taken into federal custody. The first incident occurred on December 16 on Detroit's west side, and the second took place on February 9.
The December incident was uncovered through a body camera audit, highlighting the department's internal review processes. The February incident involved a sergeant responding to a call for supervisory assistance at a traffic stop where the civilian did not speak English.
Chief Bettison emphasized that the Detroit Police Department is not engaged in immigration enforcement. He stated that the department has a 24/7 translation services line to assist officers in situations involving language barriers. Despite this, the sergeant chose to contact Border Patrol for translation services instead of using the department's resources.
In both cases, the involvement of CBP was deemed a violation of department policy, as it led to federal custody of the individuals stopped.
Following these incidents, both the officer and the sergeant were suspended with pay. Chief Bettison has requested the Board of Police Commissioners to approve suspensions without pay and has expressed his desire to terminate their employment.
The decision to fire the officers will be discussed in a highly anticipated meeting at the Detroit Public Safety Headquarters. However, any termination would require a command hearing, which could take up to 21 days to complete.
Chief Bettison acknowledged that the vast majority of officers—98 to 99 percent—adhere to department rules, policies, and procedures. However, he expressed concern over the small percentage who violate these standards, emphasizing the seriousness with which the department views such breaches.
This case highlights the department's stance on immigration enforcement and the importance of adhering to established protocols. It also underscores the department's commitment to accountability and maintaining public trust by addressing policy violations transparently.
The upcoming Board of Police Commissioners meeting will be crucial in determining the final outcome for the two officers involved.
The Detroit Police Department continues to monitor and enforce its policies to ensure that officers perform their duties within the scope of their authority and departmental guidelines.
