At its weekly meeting on Thursday, the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners formally reaffirmed its confidence in Police Chief Todd Bettison, even as the Office of Inspector General continues its review of the chief’s recent phone call to activist Jahdante Smith. Commissioner Darryl Woods moved the vote, and only District 7 Commissioner Victoria Camille abstained.
Board’s Rationale
Commissioner Woods emphasized that the chief serves at the pleasure of Mayor Mary Sheffield, not the board, and highlighted the chief’s long record of service. “We have confidence in all the work he has done thus far to help the citizens of the city of Detroit,” Woods said.
Commissioner Victoria Camille added, “We already voted to recommend him for appointment. As long as we don’t rescind that recommendation, our support of him staying in the position is assumed. The motion was unnecessary.”
Chief’s Defense
Chief Bettison told BridgeDetroit he “did nothing wrong” and will not resign. He said the conversation with Smith was a personal request to remove photos of Mayor Sheffield and former boyfriend Marvin Walker that Smith had posted. “If the citizens listen to the full conversation, they’ll have a better appreciation for it,” Bettison said. He also acknowledged the OIG’s obligation to investigate, noting, “When a criminal complaint is made, I have an obligation to look into it, regardless of who they are.”
Critics Voice Concerns
Several former law‑enforcement leaders and community members warned that the board’s vote may appear premature. Former District 7 Commissioner William Davis called the action “premature” and said the optics are “definitely not good.” He urged the board to focus on oversight rather than blanket endorsement.
Public commenter “Black Bag” praised the chief as “a very honorable man,” while other commenters criticized the chief for mixing personal and professional roles in the phone call. Smith, who maintains no personal connection to the chief, was cut off early by board chair Robert Jones after exceeding his allotted comment time.
Background of the Investigation
The OIG confirmed on Sept. 11 that it is reviewing Chief Bettison’s actions related to the social‑media posts. The investigation’s scope includes any potential misuse of authority, though the office declined to provide further details.
Police detained Smith on Aug. 19 and seized his phone after a warrant was executed in an unrelated case. Smith alleges the seizure was retaliation for refusing to remove the photos. The Detroit Police Department has since transferred all cases involving Smith and Walker to an outside law‑enforcement agency.
Historical Context
Chief Bettison rose through the ranks from patrol officer in 1994 to deputy chief in 2017, and was first appointed chief in 2024 under former Mayor Mike Duggan. Mayor Sheffield reappointed him after taking office.
The board’s vote comes amid broader public debate over the board’s role in police oversight. Critics argue the board should prioritize accountability, while supporters contend that maintaining stability in police leadership is essential for public safety.
Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.
