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Warren police commissioner to hand off Amazon driver arrest investigation to independent agency

Prosecutors deny warrant request against driver
Posted at 5:03 AM, Jun 12, 2020
and last updated 2020-06-12 05:39:52-04

WARREN, Mich. (WXYZ) — Warren Police Commissioner William Dwyer will announce today that he is handing off the investigation of the Warren cop involved in the controversial Amazon driver arrest to an independent agency.

Dwyer says he is seeking transparency with the case.

The Warren Police Department originally launched an internal investigation after cell phone video surfaced of a white police officer arresting the black Amazon driver Tuesday for allegedly parking on the wrong side of the street.

On Thursday, the Macomb County Prosecutor's office issued the following statement:

As Prosecutors, we have sworn an oath to act with integrity, utilizing balanced judgment to ensure public safety within our communities, while respecting the constitutional and legal rights of all persons. We have an obligation not only to pursue appropriate criminal charges when necessary, but also employ discretion to not authorize criminal charges as certain circumstances demand.

Protesters rallied outside Warren City Hall and marched through the streets on Thursday.

Family members of the Amazon employee, Jaylen Bond, joined supporters to express their gratitude.

"It was nonsense on the cops part," said Bond's cousin, Josephine Gardner. "His neck is all black... his knee is all messed up."

The officer involved in the altercation was placed on paid administrative leave which is protocol.

Amazon has called for a swift investigation and police accountability.

Stay with 7 Action News for updates.