MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – Jury selection began Tuesday in the trial of former Warren police officer James Burke, who is charged with manslaughter in a high-speed crash that killed two men nearly two years ago.
Burke, who was on duty at the time, was driving more than 100 mph when his patrol vehicle slammed into a turning Dodge Durango, killing 34-year-old Cedric Hayden Jr. and 33-year-old DeJuan Pettis.
Prosecutors say Burke was driving without his emergency lights or siren activated and was not involved in a pursuit when the crash happened.
The crash happened in September 2024.
Hayden and Pettis were in the Durango, turning and heading home, when Burke’s patrol SUV struck them. Both men were killed.
Prosecutors argue that Burke’s speed and his failure to use lights and sirens are central to the case.
The defense, in contrast, has suggested the victims bear some.
Legal expert Neil Rockind said Burke’s failure to activate his emergency equipment is likely to be a key issue for jurors.
“One of the things I think is going to be really interesting to see is how this plays out,” Rockind said. “Is how does the defense plan to characterize the absence of emergency lights and sirens?”
He noted that drivers are conditioned to react when they see flashing lights or hear sirens.
Rockind also said that selecting a jury in a case involving a former officer might present unique challenges for the prosecution.
“At the same time, they need to find people who are willing to be critical of a police officer who is on duty at the time,” Rockind said.
The court is scheduled to resume at 9 a.m. Wednesday (June 3).