U.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin (MI-08) issued the following statement in response to news reports that a Michigan State Trooper assigned to the Lansing post has been charged with felonious assault for ordering a K9 to attack an unresisting suspect:
"I want to highlight the action taken by the Michigan State Police today to address the conduct of an officer who appears to have encouraged a K9 to attack a man who was not resisting arrest. Our police put themselves in harm's way to protect our communities, and accountability is essential to earning and keeping public confidence in law enforcement.
"The footage of the man begging the officer to call off the dog is disturbing. That's why I appreciate that officers within the department brought this incident to light after a standard review. I commend the MSP's response in suspending the officer in question and releasing the video to the public.
"I have spoken to Col. Joseph Gasper, the MSP's director, and I believe he is taking this incident seriously. My office also has been in close contact with community advocates on this incident. I appreciate the MSP's transparency and willingness to engage the public on such policing issues."
Original source can be found here.
