SE Oakland News

Ten Republican members of the Michigan Senate have formally called on Governor Gretchen Whitmer to seek the resignation or dismissal of Michigan State Police Director Col. James Grady and Deputy Director Lt. Col. Aimee Brimacombe, citing ongoing controversies within the agency.

Senate Committee on Civil Rights, Judiciary, and Public Safety Minority Vice Chair Jim Runestad stated, “Each day these two remain in charge is another day that failed accountability and a serious lack of integrity erodes public trust in one of our state’s most respected institutions. It has become obvious they lack any sense of personal responsibility to step down voluntarily. It’s time for the governor to act.”

The request follows a series of incidents affecting the Michigan State Police (MSP), including allegations of rigged promotions, high staff turnover, exam-rigging reports from 2023, and criticism over Grady's response to a fatal police chase in 2024. Additionally, Brimacombe has faced scrutiny over disciplinary issues such as misuse of her state vehicle.

This month saw legal action against the MSP and its leadership: a retired inspector and chief diversity officer filed a lawsuit alleging harassment, favoritism, and retaliation within the agency; separately, two sergeants accused the department of continuing unfair promotion practices at its Flint post.

In June, more than 98% of MSP troopers voted no confidence in Grady and Brimacombe’s leadership. Despite calls from several state leaders for their removal at that time, Governor Whitmer has not yet taken public action.

Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt commented on behalf of his colleagues: “Gov. Whitmer must listen to Michigan’s troopers and put an end to the appalling tenure of these failed leaders who have harmed our state police force under her watch. The brave men and women of our state police deserve to have a governor who has their backs.”

The letter was signed by Senators Thomas Albert (R-Lowell), Joe Bellino (R-Monroe), Kevin Daley (R-Lum), Roger Hauck (R-Mt. Pleasant), Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton), Rick Outman (R-Six Lakes), Lana Theis (R-Brighton), Roger Victory (R-Hudsonville), along with Nesbitt and Runestad.