Two officers from the Detroit Police Department have been suspended without pay for 30 days after allegedly violating department policy by contacting U.S. Customs and Border Protection during traffic stops. Chief Todd Bettison initially expressed a desire to fire both officers but later shifted his stance after a board meeting and the filing of a lawsuit.
Detroit Police Department policies clearly prohibit officers from collaborating with federal immigration authorities for enforcement purposes. This is at the heart of the recent controversies surrounding Officer James Corsi and Sgt. Denise Wallet. The two incidents occurred in December and earlier this month. Officer Corsi reached out to Border Patrol while pursuing a felony warrant on the city’s west side. In a separate matter, Sgt. Wallet sought federal assistance for translation, bypassing the department’s own translation services.
Both contacts ultimately resulted in detentions by federal authorities. Initially, Chief Bettison placed the officers on paid suspension but indicated a strong preference for their termination. However, the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners unanimously decided on a 30-day unpaid suspension instead.
Sgt. Wallet, a 27-year veteran of the force, is challenging her suspension through a federal lawsuit. Her suit argues that contacting Border Patrol was within her rights and that she did so only for identification at the direction of her lieutenant. She seeks to prevent any further disciplinary action.
The situation evolved quickly. After the board’s decision, Chief Bettison announced he would no longer pursue termination. “Policies are meant to provide structure and limits for officers to protect them and citizens alike,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of following policies and how neglecting them can endanger community safety.
The Chief acknowledged the Board of Police Commissioners’ review of the video evidence and their consideration of all relevant facts before reaching their decision. He expressed respect for the board’s role as an oversight body.
Bettison’s final remarks underscored a clear message: discipline is necessary when policies are breached. He reiterated his commitment to enforcing rules within the Detroit Police Department. This incident highlights the tension between local law enforcement practices and federal immigration policies, a scenario that continues to provoke debate across the country.
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