DETROIT (WXYZ) — Two officers with the Detroit Police Department have been suspended with pay after Snapchat video surfaced of an officer making racist remarks toward a black woman he had pulled over and ordered to walk home because of a suspended license.
Detroit Police Chief James Craig announced the suspensions during a Monday afternoon press conference. The officer who made the remarks and his partner, who was with him at the time, were suspended, effective immediately.
The incident sparked an internal affairs investigation. Craig said that the decision to suspend the officers was based on preliminary findings along with additional information obtained from another officer in the department.
That additional information includes an alleged previous incident where one of the suspended officers made another video in 2017 mocking a black family whose vehicle he impounded. The officer allegedly made used more disparaging language as the family was forced to carry their presents home. Chief Craig says that incident is still being investigated.
"I have spoken to a number of department members, men and women of all ethnic backgrounds, rank and file, who have expressed their disdain and outrage in this incident," Craig said. "We are held to a higher standard. Our officers are expected to serve the community both ethically and respectfully, and this type of behavior will not be tolerated."
The investigation is ongoing.
Watch the full briefing below:
