Michigan Lawmakers Target Cops Who Jump to a New Position After Being Accused of Misconduct

MICHIGAN - On October 3, Michigan Lawmakers voted to prevent police misconduct from being kept secret when they search for a new position at another department.

Legislation passed this 105 to 2 in the House this would require law enforcement agencies to keep these records of misconduct that were reason for the officer to move on to a new department. The officers will now have to sign a waiver saying it is okay for their employers to keep any misconducts on record and they will not be hired if they refuse to.

Republican Senator Rick Jones said this bill targets officers that after misconduct such as excessive force. The legislation won unanimous Senate approval and should reach Governor Rick Snyder's desk for approval soon.

Law enforcement agencies often urge officers to resign after an event takes place because it saves them from a lengthy hearing process and legal bills. When a new employer calls inquiring about the officer often times the office says little to nothing in fear of being sued. This bill opens that up and allows agencies to find the right man for the job allowing them to disclose records without any liability issues.

Republican senator Rick Jones introduced the bill after a cop from Eaton County was accused of making an abusive and improper traffic arrest and resigned from that department but then landed a job in Lenawee County shortly after. The cop was then sued for two alleged assaults with his new department. Some officers are permitted to quietly resign and never even face decertification. Agencies also may sometimes fail to check references or fail to share past problems with these new employers.

Very few states have laws that address these officers who move to different agencies after misconduct issues. Connecticut prohibits police departments from hiring any officer who was dismissed for misconduct or who resigned or retired while under investigation for misconduct. Colorado police departments are required to share information about the misconduct or misrepresentations made by officers seeking employment with another agency within the state.