Detroit police chief says suspended commander was not authorized to work as bouncer

Cmdr. Timothy Leach involved in incident with another man at bar

DETROIT – A Detroit police command officer has been suspended with pay following an incident at a bar that left another man hospitalized with head injuries.

Chief James Craig told reporters Tuesday that 11th Precinct Cmdr. Timothy Leach was off-duty and in an "unauthorized outside employment capacity" on March 11 when Michael Karpovich, 41, was hurt.

Detroit police Cmdr. Timothy Leach

Craig said Karpovich was "involved with a person working as a bouncer" and was "taken to the ground."

The incident initially was reported as a slip and fall, but investigators later reviewed video from inside the bar. Craig says criminal and internal investigations are underway.

An attorney for Karpovich's family says he suffered skull fractures.

The Associated Press was unable Tuesday to find phone numbers for Leach or the union that represents Detroit police command officers.


About the Authors:

Koco joined the Local 4 News team in September of 2016. She was born and raised in Metro Detroit, attended Central Michigan University, and previously worked at WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids.

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.