By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing:
• Detroit Police Chief James White reversed the firing of two officers who called U.S. Border Patrol during traffic stops in late January.
• White said the initial termination did not reflect current policy and that disciplinary actions were being reassessed.
• The two officers had contacted Border Patrol for immigration assistance in separate traffic stops.
• City officials said the reversal aims to clarify department policy on contacting federal partners.
DETROIT, MICH. — Detroit Police Chief James White said Thursday that he has rescinded the termination of two officers who were fired earlier this month for contacting U.S. Border Patrol during traffic stops, department officials confirmed.
White said in a department statement that the original decision to fire the officers did not reflect current Detroit Police Department policy and that disciplinary actions are being reassessed in consultation with city leadership.
The officers had made calls to Border Patrol agents in separate traffic-stop incidents in late January, prompting both internal review and public scrutiny over the appropriateness of involving federal immigration authorities in local policing.
City officials said the reversal is intended to ensure that department personnel understand proper procedures for contacting federal partners and that updated guidance will be provided.
The department did not immediately release details on what disciplinary measures, if any, the officers may now face.