today is recording in progress. We good over there, back there. Are we online? Okay, thank you. Today is the 26th of June, and the time is 301. The Board of police commission meeting is called to order. Do we have Chaplain Brenda Puckett online? Yes,
May will you please do the invocation,
Oh gracious and mighty God, we come before you today with grateful hearts, asking for your guidance and wisdom over this meeting, we lift up every member of this Commissioner board, all our officers and the entire community they serve. Let there be integrity, trust and a heart for the community. We pray for unity and peace. We ask you to give all the law enforcement officers protection and strength, health and well being as they have fairness and truth in every call of duty, and we ask all of these things in Jesus name, we pray, Amen,
amen, amen.
We don't have a quorum yet. We are expecting,
Yep, yeah, we have a quorum. Okay, we do have a quorum. Yeah, three, there's six. We do have a quorum. All right, let's call the roll please.
Commissioner Woods present,
Commissioner Bernard
present, District Two, Commissioner banks, present, Commissioner Bell, President District
Four,
Commissioner Moore, present,
Commissioner de Walsh,
Commissioner de wash, present. Six, present, sir,
okay, I like to entertain a motion for the approval of the April or the June 26 2025 agenda move moved by Commissioner Moore, second by Commissioner de wash. Any discussion? All in favor? Say, aye. Aye. Anyone opposed, the motion is carried. I entertain a motion for the approval of the minutes of June 5. 2025 so move, moved by Commissioner Moore, second, second by Commissioner Bernard. Any discussion? All in favor? Say, aye. Anyone opposed, the motion is carried. I entertain a motion for the approval of the minutes of June 12, 2025, second moved by Commissioner Moore and second by Commissioner Bernard. Any discussion? All in favor? Say, aye. Aye. Anyone opposed, the motion is carried. We have introduction of vopc staff, chief of police and other elected officials
present today, Corporation Counsel, Conrad mallet, chief investigator, Jerome Warfield, Drew freeze, Felicia Tyson, Johnny Underwood, Mary Barber, Theresa blossom, Candace Hayes are me see a Joshua and Dior Mathis, investigator, supervising investigator from OCI, Elgin Murphy and Dr Francis Jackson, parliamentarian, BPD, HR, Director Katrina Patillo is also present, Chief of Police Office, Deputy Chief Mark Blitz, our interpreters today are Miss Jacob and Dr Stephanie Beatty, court reporter today, Don Handyside, Henry Jackson, audio visual and Jason Gant for Media Services signed in at this time the following Marie overall for State Representative Tyrone Carter's office, bridge of Butler, second, yes, I do see her. Frigid Butler, Miss Friedrich. Butler, second precinct Community Relations president, Ladon Davis, Office of council member Freder Hall, the third mark young Scotty Bowman on Zoom, I believe. And former deputy former Detroit Police Commissioner William Davis, also on Zoom, and those of persons registered at this time, sir.
Thank you. We're going to go into the report. The bopc chairman's report is Mrs. Johnson in the house, in the room. Can you stand to the podium? This is a resolution for her dear husband, Rafael B Johnson. Rafael Johnson is a bull work and the city of Detroit, as well as in the state of Michigan, I have never given out a resolution since I've been on the board of police commission, and this is the only resolution that I have recommended, and there's a very, very special resolution for me because of Raphael B Johnson, dr, Raphael B Johnson, tenaciousness and his courage in the City, Detroit. He currently serve as the legislative, legislative director for Senator Santana's office, but I'm going to read this resolution he would be here today. We have Mr. Keith Bennett in here. We got renardo holes in here, who's standing tall for Dr Raphael Johnson, but he had an injury that prevents him from being here, but he really wanted to be here. When I got sworn in as a police commissioner, I asked him to come to my swearing in ceremony, and you'll see why. Well,
he brought his better half, his better half,
absolutely Mrs. Johnson, absolutely
resolution honoring Dr Raphael B Johnson, yes. Whereas Raphael B Johnson is a leading activist against gun violence as a founder and leader in the 180 program the Detroit 300 and other groups, he is current his in his current role as Michigan Senate legislative director, he plays a pivotal role in state legislation that enacts standards, funding and reform for police agencies and the criminal justice system. And whereas he is a graduate of the Gwen made mercy University Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership Program, he attended the University of Detroit Mercy where he graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in legal administration and a Masters of Arts in the Liberal Studies and whereas Dr Johnson Research redefined self destructive behavior aided stakeholders and properly identifying thought processes that leads to school disengagement, specified misbehaviors and eventual adult incarceration. This 180 program provided services that offer both students and educators the opportunity to achieve better academic decision making and life outcomes. And 2015 Georgia Southern University incorporated his professional development series into its annual national youth at risk conferences. And 2016 his research topic self destructive behavior in urban middle schools as a predictor of adult incarceration, won first place in an international Thesis competition hosted by Mary Immaculate College in Limerick Ireland. And whereas his many initiatives, along with his motivational session with trouble teams on the more coverage show you why. Praise and accolades. Wm, XD, 92.3, FM awarded him. It's 2002 holds honor, Award for Best community leader in 2010 Mayor Dave being appointed him as a police commissioner. However, facing a lack of support from the Detroit City Council for for confirmation, Doctor Johnson withdrew his nomination. His work continue, and he went on to earn honors as the 2011 Michigan of the year, the 2012 NAACP Ida B Wells Award and the 2019 Michigan chronicle men, men of excellent Award. He also is a multi, multiple gold medalist in Michigan us a power lifting lead. Now therefore be it resolved. The Board of police commissioners recognizes Dr Rafael B Johnson for his community leadership and improving public safety, strengthening police community relations, his achievements, his meaning in mentoring youth and advancing public safety. Merit our highest regards. We thank and congratulate you signed by the board of police
commissioners motion to adopt second
motion made by Commissioner Moore and second by Commissioner Bernard. Any discussion. There have been no discussion. All in favor. Say aye. Aye. Anyone opposed, the motion is
carried applause,
and you may have some remarks. Thank you
to Chairman Darrell wells and the great body of women in the end that make up the board of commission. Thank you so much. Unfortunately, Rafael could not be here because of a training injury. But of course, he sent his better half, so he sent words. So I'll read his speech for you. 15 years ago, I was 35 years old. I had been home for six years after after serve time for a serious crime committed as a juvenile. Up to this point, I had lived an exemplary, exemplary life as a Muslim in the Nation of Islam. I got married, raised two children, obtained a bachelor's and master's degree, wrote and helped manage programs for returning citizens at the Goodwill flip the script. I was also the founder of the Detroit 300 which helped the Detroit Police solve multiple crimes against women, children and senior citizens, including catching two serial rapists. I had received hundreds of awards around the country for community activism and engagement with the youth. Even Steve Harvey acknowledged me with the best Community Leader Award, which included a brand new vehicle. Maury povid contracted me to do work as a daytime TV personality, helping out out of control teens and controlling men and change their distorted thinking to reach tension reduction. My passion to serve led me to run for city council in 2008 there was a historic 165 candidates that entered the race. I won the primary election, but came up short in the general soon after Mayor being appointed me to the Detroit Police Board of Commissioners, I admittedly accepted, accepted the appointment, and I didn't know all the details of the job description. I did fathom that such a position required honesty, good character, sound judgment, fairness and the ability to work with others, strength and courage to vote based on my conscious and not for the whims of others. These were all qualities that I had been known for as an adult, nevertheless, based on the reaction and outburst by some to my appointment. One have one would have thought I was opposite of those traits, the hypocrisy, discrimination and unforgiveness that I experienced was a wake up call. It reminded me that no matter how far I had come and the multiple accomplishments I achieved, some people will always remind me of the errors of my youth. The City Council at the time, stalled my confirmation vote and had leaked to the media their apprehension with me and my past, my faith codes of honor and principles would not allow me to grovel to no one, let alone this group of individuals. So before I allowed them to tell me no, I went to Mayor bean and absolve myself of the appointment. I went on in the last 15 years to live my best life under the awning of Allah's mercy. I obtained a doctorate degree, honed my skills as a day one dad to my son and daughter. Sent my son to college, and my daughter is on her way next year, operating as a successful businessman of 21 years and married a beautiful woman that I am proud to have on my eye. We have traveled the world and established strategic relationships I probably live as a law abiding, tax paying citizen. I've never been sued nor accused of any improprieties. As an irony of my experience 15 years ago is that people who spoke out against my appointment and the loudest ended up on the short end of the state several committed crimes that were sentenced to prison, and several others are no longer with us, and some are suffering from ailments. I wish no harm on any misfortune on anyone. I just believe, as the Scriptures say, The Lord will fight for you. You just need to be still. Exodus, 1414, in the end, this note is to make this disclaimer that it's based on my 21 years of being still and watching everyone, the ex offender or justice involved individual who engages in true repentance and reform is very least to the society needs to worry about. They are the most trustworthy people that walk the earth. It is the people who have rendered squeaky clean and have never been to jail or prison that you have to watch closely. Thank you, Chairman woods for the honor of this resolution. I salute you and your family for representing the best of us. Much respect. Dr Raphael Johnson, applause.
Oh, theory. Thank you very much. We have
another resolution honoring
Captain John window. He's retiring for the sake of the he's not present for for the sake of can we? I? Of, can
we take care of Mr. Chair Yeah? Resolution honor Captain John Whitmer. Whereas John Whitmer was appointed to the Detroit Police Department on June 13, 1994 Upon successfully graduating from the Detroit Metropolitan Police Academy, he began his professional law enforcement career at the 11th precinct. And whereas whitmer's Officer Whitmer assignments with the Detroit Police Department also included the six precinct patrol section, the special response team training section, fifth precinct and family advocate and management liaison, engagement, family over the years, Officer Whitmer sailed at his assignments and was well known for his commitment to excellence in public safety, and whereas officer Whitmer displayed tremendous knowledge and leadership skill, he was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2006 four years later, Sergeant Whitmer earned promotion to the rank of Lieutenant from 2010 through 2023 Lieutenant Whitmer held alternate alternating assignments at the special response team and the training section. Whereas Lieutenant Whitmer was promoted to the rank of captain on October 30, 2023 and assigned to the fifth precinct on September 23 2024 Captain Whitmer duties expanded to include the family unit. Whereas Captain Whitmer was the deserving recipient of the following awards, a life saving citation and metal to department citations, the Major League Baseball 2005 All Star Game award, the chiefs Unit Award, both consent judgment Awards, the Rosa Parks funeral award, the Ford fireworks Award and the Super Bowl 40 Recognition Award, as well as commendations from supervisors and numerous letters of appreciation from citizenry, and as he retires on July 3, 2025 Captain Whitmer continues to be known as a consummate professional in public safety and law enforcement. Therefore, be it resolved that the Detroit board of police commissioners, speaking on behalf of the citizens of Detroit, awards this resolution in recognition of Captain John Whitmer, 31 years of dedicated and diligent public service, his courage, leadership and unwavering community spirit have improved the quality of life for the residents of Detroit. This dedicated service merits our highest regards and best wishes for his future endeavors. We thank and congratulate you, Captain John Whitmer, move for adoption, Mr. Chair,
motion made by Commissioner Moore, supported by Commissioner de wash, any discussion, yes, sir,
I'm pleased that we awarding this young man this resolution. He was one of my rookie officer at the 11th place when I was signed there, and he had outstanding career, and just a blessing to witness that him coach of the ring. Thank
you. Four scores and seven years ago,
all in favor. Say, all in favor. Say, aye, aye. Anyone opposed the motion is carried. What is the pleasure this is? I entertain a motion to for to open up the How would I say this? There's going to be the election of the board of police commissioners, officers, which is the chairperson? What is the pledge of nominations? Yeah, just the nomination. Any nominations,
I nominate Commissioner Eva Garza de wash with chairperson, do you
accept that nomination? I accept absolutely
no more nomination.
I intend to I nominate District Six Commissioner Lisa Carter. I think the board needs experience.
He declined. Okay, all right,
then I then I follow Paulo.
Acknowledge Linda Bernard,
do you accept the nomination, or
you're nominating me? Yes for chairperson, yes, both Lisa and I. No, no, I'm
trying to understand, she rejected nomination. Oh, she accepts that nomination.
Terminology, okay, I, I'll accept the nomination. Okay,
let's, uh, have, we have a roll call vote.
Please. Please announce the nomination, the nomination for one more time. If any more nomination, any more nominations, no more other nomination, you can announce that
they're closed. They are
closed. Thank you. Ma'am said, Thank you, Mama. So let's what
we do, a roll call
vote so for the nomination of Commissioner de wash as the chairperson, all in favor for her being the chairpersons
signify by saying, raising your hand.
I Oh, okay, so that's 1-231-234-5678,
and so you have it.
Congratulations, and
for your leadership, yet you have some words to say. Thank
you very much. I appreciate the confidence that you all have in me, and I will do my very best to respect and listen to the community, to hold the police department accountable and also respect them and provide them with what they need to protect our communities.
Thank you. Like to open up for nomination for Vice Chair.
I'd like to nominate Commissioner Darryl woods for Vice Chair.
Through the Chair, like to nominate Commissioner Tamara Smith. I that
any more nominations
the parliamentarian needs to check if there's any impediment on her serving concurrent terms. Okay, you could just give me a few seconds.
If not. It says is, no,
the chair cannot. I'm not sure about the vice chair. Vice Chair can serve.
Yeah, they say they can serve. So we can move on. All right, the for Commissioner
dur was as the
nomination are closed, and for Commissioner Derral woods to be the vice chair. So by the raising your hands, 123, to the chair, I for this, okay, for for device, we're in the middle of a vote, but uh, Tamara, what five? You know, that's it, right? Five on five.
Uh, we got 10 people here, though.
Okay, all right, so for the nomination of Tamara Liberty Smith, one, two.
Wow. Please announce no election. No election now, you gotta keep voting.
Can we have a discussion?
Is that proper madam, parliamentary or
not in the middle of a vote, unless there's something about you can ask for the candidates to give a statement. If you the candidate wants to give a statement on why they think they would be a good person for the office that you can do, but you cannot have the time for debate was before you started voting.
You have a statement. Anyway.
Can I come and dress you then Mayor,
you can address the chair, yeah. Burton, all right, so
the chair, yes, some time ago that this board has talked about rotation of chairperson and going from chair to vice chair and then to chair. And I think this board has voted and and voted for that change when you know when the new commission came in place,
and and so
and so. You know, I like for this, this board, to continue down that, that you know that that path, you know of, you know, you know, having not allowing the chairperson to go from vice chair to chair and vice versa. You know, we have talked about that at this table, and the board has moved in a different direction since then. I don't want us to see us go back down down that path.
Yes, sir, sure.
Do we have a paper trail on that,
some kind of documentations, since
documentation? Well, pretty much, pretty much majority of us in this room can contest to it. At the time, we had a different secretary, and you know, that was Secretary than what we have now. But I'm sure that this can and find and find that, but I don't know that they were able to find it by the time this you know, this process is over today. Postpone it's already tied. Let's postpone
it in and see if the documentation can come up. We want to do everything right, though. We want to do
chairman, that's the violation of your bylaws. You're already in violation of the bylaws. We should have had the election some time ago. The motion to postpone, sir would not be in order. Okay?
Yes, sir Commissioner through the chair, not knowing of any vote that was had, but I was the chair prior to Chairman woods, and my vice chair was commissioners Jim Holly, who was the previous chair before I became chair. So it doesn't seem as if that precedent had been broken, because again, just the previous chair prior to Darrell Woods had a vice chair who also was the Chair.
Mr. Chair, yes, sir, my concern is just a continuation of the board. A lot of us sitting here today won't be here January 1, right? Um, I'm not sure if Commissioner Smith even picked up petitions to run again. So it'll be a six months appointment. I think that with an appointment of either like we did, Commissioner de wash Presley would be eligible, as well as yourself, just for a continuation, so that we wouldn't have a break in service, so to speak. And that's that's what the concern is. So for me, yes, sir,
Commissioner Holly was the Chair and Vice Chair for six months, the Vice Chair for six months,
through the chair, and it was a disaster, because we put you in place and then we had to remove you, so we're not going through that again. Wow, that's not appropriate. Yes,
anymore. Nominations back
again, Mr. Chairman, if that's the personal attack remarks.
Is it true? If it's true,
Commissioner process,
we had to remove you. Speak
to the chair, please. Chair. Excuse me, sir. Speak to the chair
out of order, yeah,
open up for nominations,
Mr. Chairman, in order to reopen nominations.
Oh, we keep, keep the vote going.
Okay for Commissioner woods to be the vice chair, show everybody raising hands to share.
Yeah, 12312345,
Mr. Chair, yes, please stay five to five. I don't think nobody will change their mind for you, the fastest vote for Commissioner. Carter, no
camera, Commissioner camera,
just go state. Your Mark
is a motion? Can I make a motion to reopen nominations? You said it requires two thirds. It
is possible to make a motion to reopen nominations. It requires two thirds to adopt it as a non debatable motion.
So to reopen,
or don't we reopen nominations for vice chair?
Motion made by Commissioner press leads to reopen nomination.
And is it a second?
There's not a second
to the chair. Can we call for a five minute recess?
Is that appropriate?
The motion to recess is a higher ranking motion is non debatable. If the commissioners want to vote for that, they can that's needed right now. Any regroup, it's a non debatable motion, Mr. Chairman, yeah, okay,
motion made by Commissioner Burton and second by Commissioner banks. Any discussion? All the same, debatable. It's not debatable. Yeah. Recess, five Minute. Recess, I
