DETROIT – Police Chief Todd Bettison said the department plans to release body camera footage from a June shooting involving an armed 18-year-old in downtown Detroit once a court restriction is lifted.
Bettison addressed questions about the footage during his Walk a Mile Wednesday (July 22) while speaking to Local 4, saying he understands why community members want to see the video.
“As soon as I can release it, I definitely plan on releasing it,” Bettison said.
A rally is being held for Alonzo Anthony Lee-Perkins Wednesday night.
Background: Downtown shooting near Ford Fireworks
The incident occurred June 22, just hours before the Ford Fireworks show, near an apartment complex at Bates and Farmer streets in downtown Detroit.
Police said the incident began when officers spotted a 19-year-old with a rifle and arrested him.
Lee-Perkins, 18, who police said was also armed, allegedly ran from officers and was subsequently shot.
Detroit police said an officer feared for his safety and the safety of the public, firing his weapon at Lee-Perkins multiple times.
Charges against Lee-Perkins
Lee-Perkins faces three charges: carrying a concealed weapon, resisting a police officer and felony firearm.
He was arraigned June 30 and given a $10,000 personal bond.
Court restriction, independent investigation
Bettison said a temporary restriction order issued by the court is currently preventing the department from releasing the footage.
He added that an independent investigation led by Michigan State Police is also underway.
Bettison said the department remains committed to transparency but must follow the legal process before releasing video evidence.
“I’m transparent,” Bettison said. “I will release it as soon as I can.”
When asked why the temporary restriction was put in place or how long it would remain active, Bettison said he did not want to speculate and would need to gather more information from his team.
Bettison addressed the charges against Lee-Perkins directly.
“I’ll just say that the suspect has been charged, and so that’s out publicly after what his actions were,” Bettison said.
Community engagement
Bettison made the comments while participating in community engagement efforts, including walking through neighborhoods and speaking with Detroit residents.
The department has not announced a timeline for the release of the body camera footage.
“The Detroit Police Officers Association filed an action in Wayne County Third Circuit Court, alleging the ordinance passed by City Council in October 2025--that would require DPD to release all Body Worn Camera (BWC) footage involving use of force incidents, to be released within in 30 days--was a violation of the collective bargaining agreement. This resulted in a Temporary Restraining Order that prevents DPD from releasing BWC footage.’
Detroit police spokesperson Jasmin Barmore