City issues statements related to February 18 officer-involved shooting
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – City of Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand, City Manager Mark Washington and Oversight and Public Accountability Director Brandon Davis today provided the following statements in regard to the February 18 officer-involved shooting.
Statement from Mayor David LaGrand
“As with any incident of this magnitude, the City of Grand Rapids is committed to the highest degree of transparency possible, consistent with preserving the integrity of the ongoing investigations by the Michigan State Police and the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office.
“Any loss of life is a profound tragedy. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and mourn this loss alongside our community.
“The safety of our residents remains our foremost responsibility. While the work of our police officers is essential to public safety, it must always be subject to rigorous oversight and held to the highest professional standards.”
Statement from City Manager Mark Washington
“Members of our community are grieving, and we extend our deepest sympathies to the family and all those affected. Also, because of this incident, members of our police department find themselves under additional scrutiny while they are challenged to strengthen trust in our community and keep everybody safe. To ensure a fair and impartial outcome, an independent investigation by the Michigan State Police is currently underway, followed by reviews from the County Prosecutor, GRPD administrative staff, and the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability.
“A thorough and impartial investigation takes time, and it is imperative that the process remains free and impartial. We ask for the community's patience as these independent bodies complete their work. The City remains committed to transparency and will continue to share updates as they become available. We encourage everyone to channel their emotions into constructive dialogue as we work though this incident together. “
Statement from Oversight and Public Accountability Managing Director Brandon Davis
“The Office of Oversight and Public Accountability extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and all those impacted by this incident. Any loss of life carries profound weight for our community, and we recognize the grief and concern many residents are experiencing.
“Consistent with City policy and in order to ensure independence, the criminal investigation regarding the officer involved shooting is being conducted by the Michigan State Police. After completing its investigation, the findings will be reviewed by the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office, which determines whether criminal charges are warranted.
“Separately, the Grand Rapids Police Department will conduct an internal administrative review to determine compliance with department policies and procedures. Following that process, the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability will independently review the available evidence, evaluate the department’s internal investigation, and conduct a full audit. Our office will publicly release our findings (redacted only as required by law) as quickly as possible.
“This layered accountability process is designed to reduce conflicts of interest and strengthen public confidence in the process. OPA remains committed to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that all people feel safe and are safe at all times in Grand Rapids, while respecting the integrity of this ongoing investigation.”
The City is partnering with The Wisdom Center throughout the month of March to provide mental health resources for members of the community that may need additional support due to this incident. Information on how to take advantage of that resource will be forthcoming.
Those with information on this incident are asked to call the Michigan State Police - Grand Rapids Post at 616-866-4441 or submit tips safely and anonymously through Silent Observer via its phone line (616.774.2345), website or app.
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