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Wayne County deputies being investigated for alleged social media posts about the election

Posted at 4:14 PM, Nov 09, 2020
and last updated 2020-11-09 18:21:18-05

DETROIT (WXYZ) — An internal investigation is underway into two Wayne County deputies and an employee with the sheriff's office over politically motivated social media posts.

Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon says all three employees who allegedly made the posts are still on the job, but could face discipline if they violated social media policy.

“We do take this very seriously,” Napoleon said.

The sheriff reacted to learning about the Facebook posts on Monday. The posts were allegedly made over the weekend by three members of his staff. At least two of which work for the Wayne County Jail. Part of one deputy's post was in reference to the presidential election and reads, "there will be bloodshed but it will be worth it. Trump ain't laying down."

Another deputy allegedly writing, "I would volunteer to be on the front line for this."

“I’ve looked at the allegations," Sheriff Napoleon said. "We aren’t going to run from this, but rather have an internal investigation already underway.”

Napoleon tells 7 Action News members of his department are expected to know that they represent the county and therefore must be responsible with any social media posts they make.

That could also include an alleged comment by a civilian worker who wrote, "Trump exposed all the career criminal politicians."

“We expected professionalism," Napolen said. "Our staff know they have a duty to represent our organization in the best possible way at all times.”

With an internal investigation underway, the sheriff is promising transparency, and to send a message that accountability within his agency remains a top priority not only during an election, but also afterwards.

The names of the employees involved are not being released at this time.