7/26/22 - Discrimination Chargest Against The Grand Rapids Police Department

The Michigan Department of Civil Rights filed charges of racial discrimination against the Grand Rapids Police Department on Monday.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Civil Rights referred to two specific cases and said their department is investigating a total of 28 racial discrimination complaints that have been filed against the Grand Rapids Police Department. 

During a news conference on Monday, MDCR spokesperson John E. Johnson, Jr, said they held hearings in which 80 individuals shared their experiences of bias and discrimination.

Two cases that were highlighted included:

-Honestie Hodges, an 11-year-old girl that was put in handcuffs as police tried to tract down a suspect in a stabbing.

-Melissa Mason was driving with her children and was pulled over for expired plates.  During the traffic stop she was put in handcuffs and put in a police vehicle for a time. 

An  administrative law judge will review the investigation.  A proceeding will be held and a judge will recommend if discriminatory action occurred and what if any penalties, should be implemented. 

Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom plans to release a review of the department and policy proposals before City Commissioners today.