By Mitchell Willetts
The Kansas City Star
DETROIT — A Michigan police officer recently appeared at a virtual court hearing without any pants, taking those in attendance by surprise and leaving local authorities embarrassed.
A woman’s hearing on charges of drag racing and disorderly conduct was underway Monday, Oct. 27, when 36th District Court Judge Sean Perkins asked Detroit police officer Matthew Jackson to appear on camera.
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Perkins doesn’t seem to notice anything unusual at first, and neither does Jackson. But TaTaNisha Reed , an attorney for the woman whose case was being discussed, voices concern over what she’s seeing: a police officer sitting on a couch wearing only the top half of his uniform.
“You got some pants on, officer?” Perkins asks.
Jackson adjusts his camera so his lower half isn’t visible.
“Sir, they’re in the…,” he says, trailing off. Then, “no, sir.”
Despite the unexpected distraction, Perkins immediately moves ahead with the case, and the woman accepts a plea deal.
The Detroit Police Department said it is aware of the “viral video” and is addressing the matter.
“The Detroit Police Department requires its officers to represent themselves in a dignified and professional manner while attending court proceedings,” Police Chief Todd Bettison said in a statement. “The involved officer’s actions are not representative of the professionalism of this department and will be appropriately addressed to maintain the public confidence and efficient operation of this department.”
“Our apologies are hereby extended to the judges and staff of the court, as well as anyone else who may have been in attendance during this incident,” he added.
William McConico, 36th District Court Chief Judge, told WXYZ that Jackson’s pantsless appearance is particularly surprising because of the officer’s reputation.
“(Perkins) wanted to stress to me that Officer Jackson is a very professional police officer, he’s always been very courteous to the citizens, and that’s why it was a little bit stunning,” McConico told the outlet.
Does your agency allow virtual court appearances?
Police1 readers respond:
- Yes, we allow virtual appearances and our court attire policy requires that officers wear pants :)
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