ANN ARBOR, Mich. – A former Ann Arbor police officer is under investigation after accusations that he told female motorists they could avoid traffic citations in exchange for inappropriate acts.
Local 4 obtained copies of three complaints under the Freedom of Information Act.
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View: Complaints involving former Ann Arbor police officer
Ann Arbor Police Chief John Seto told Local 4 the department's Professional Standards Unit began the investigation after allegations surfaced that the officer made inappropriate comments to several female motorists during traffic stops.
"As soon as the AAPD internal investigation revealed some alleged acts which could be criminal in nature, the Michigan State Police was requested to conduct an independent investigation," Seto said.
According to one of the complaints, on June 16, a woman student was pulled over by the officer for speeding on Plymouth Road. During the conversation with the officer, the woman asked what her options were and the officer replied, "What can a girl do for a guy?" When the girl suggested she bake or do translation paperwork, the officer told her to think harder about what a "girl can do for a guy."
According to another citizen complaint, the officer stopped and cited the complainant on May 19 on State Street for speeding -- but "encouraged her to take the violation to court."
On the day of the hearing, the complainant said she was asked by the officer to step into a private room and he proceeded to tell her he could get the ticket dismissed but wanted to know "what was in it for him." He is also alleged to have said: "I want to see how well you can convince me that I should do this."
While both the department and Michigan State Police investigations were still active, Seto said the officer resigned on July 17.
"The actions of the officer were unacceptable, which is why he is no longer a member of the AAPD," Seto said.
Seto said MSP has turned over their investigation to the Washtenaw County Prosecutor's office to determine if the former officer will be charged.
Anyone with information is requested to contact:
D/F/Lt. Sean M. Furlong
Special Investigation Section
First District Headquarters
Michigan State Police
517-322-5573