Michigan State Police officers are monitored in an effort to ensure that they do not stop and arrest minority-group citizens out of proportion, and an overall independent review is taking place.
If a trooper stops a higher percentage of Black motorists than other officers, for example, this is supposed to show up in the stats.
This reform was revealed in Monday’s 40-minute discussion with City Council members who extended an invite, based on complaints from citizens who say MSP misconduct has gone beyond the videotaped beatings of two African American men during the past 13 months, the first on Annesley street and the second on Webber.
Some aggrieved residents say they feel targeted as a matter of routine.
Capt. Greg Morenko is new in command of the Tri-County district, and he told council members that because the monthly “demographic” reviews also are a recent step, he does not yet have a full measure of the results.
The discussion took root when Councilwoman Monique Lamar Silvia asked about higher rates of traffic stops “for people of color than for people of non-color.”
Morenko responded that anyone with a grievance should file an official complaint, with online options and personal interviews both available.
He said incidents of police misconduct and violence “turn my stomach,” and added, “My expectation (of MSP troopers) is professionalism at all times.”
Increasing MSP presence began 12 years ago to help Saginaw and other hard-pressed towns cope with local budget cuts. Morenko reported that during this time, 1,200 firearms have been removed under “directed patrols,” including about 100 of the assault type. Critics have described this as a stop-and-frisk tactic.
Inspector Todd Mapes, in contrast to Morenko, brings a 25-year local background to his task as assistant commander and community engagement specialist. He took note of trooper involvement in everything from reading with school children to mentoring teens to mingling while on patrol at festivals and events.
Mayor Brenda Moore supported Mapes, noting that she always can rely on state police to support her voluntary outreach projects, such as Saturday’s Easter basket distribution at 3:30 at Hoyt Park.
She added that MSP is vital in Saginaw, which now has fewer than 50 officers, compared to 150 at the turn of the millennium.
Even so, the council will be keeping close watch in regard to citizen complaints, said the mayor, who asked Morenko for his business card.
To view the discussion, click here.
In other action:
- Dates for homeowners to apply for roof repairs are April 22 and April 29, both Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Hall. Anyone who cannot attend may call (989) 577-0184 or email ARPAservice@saginaw-mi.com.
Qualifying incomes cover low into middle, such as $90,000 for a family of four, or 300 percent of poverty level. Staffers also may assist in finding aid for homeowners to help settle back taxes or other issues, in order to become eligible.
Furnaces are the first phase of the $3.8 million ARPA project, which will result in 114 home-heating installations, with 48 already completed. After windows will come roofs.
- Approval of a property tax break will pave the way for a possible rescue of the abandoned former Walgreens drug store, 3424 East Genesee at Hess. Bridgeport-based developer Anthony Denha, with support from Saginaw Future and the city administration, indicated a $2.3 million investment in a neighborhood store that will feature both fresh produce and party supplies.
