Michigan State Employees Association

10/12/2026

STOP BEING MANIPULATED‼

In the past few months our office has been contacted by LEOs across the state. A tactic seems to be emerging against law enforcement officers.

We’re concerned about a pattern spreading across Michigan: suspects under investigation or facing criminal charges are filing complaints against the VERY officers who arrested them or the detectives investigating them.

Some defense attorneys are beginning to use this as a defense tactic: encouraging complaints against investigators to create a credibility issue, put pressure on the agency, and gain leverage in the criminal case. Challenging an officer’s conduct with evidence is legitimate advocacy. Using unsupported accusations to manufacture doubt is another matter.

Prosecutors and agency leaders need to exercise discretion and common sense. Every complaint deserves an appropriate assessment, but not every accusation warrants a full internal investigation. Leadership should examine the allegation, available evidence, and surrounding circumstances before escalating it.

That includes looking at the suspect’s motivation. When was the complaint made? What evidence supports it? Is it being used to effect the investigation/case? Does it identify actual misconduct? Ignoring motivation and timing leaves the process vulnerable to manipulation.

Legitimate allegations must be investigated fairly. Officers must also receive fair treatment. Neither the filing of a complaint nor the opening of an investigation establishes wrongdoing, and neither should automatically undermine an officer’s credibility.

Leadership means making informed decisions, not automatically launching a full investigation whenever a suspect makes an accusation. Criminal charges and misconduct findings should turn on evidence, not pressure tactics.

www.defenderoftheblue.com National Fraternal Order of Police

10/12/2026

MSEA recognizes our Forest Fire Officers, DNR employees, and every public servant responding to the wildfires in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

As crews work in demanding conditions to protect people, homes, and Michigan’s natural resources, we are grateful for the professionalism, preparation, and courage they bring to this work.

To every employee on the fire line, supporting operations, coordinating the response, and helping affected communities, thank you. Please stay safe. Michigan is grateful for your service.

Please follow local emergency guidance and avoid fire areas so responders can do their work safely.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1K474gKJiE/

UPDATE: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19oXXtD6oP/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Officials have updated the current “Ready, Set, Go!” status for residents located along North Basin Drive to “Set”. Residents in this area are now encouraged to do the following:

⚠️ Monitor local media and emergency alerts
⚠️ Load vehicles with emergency bags and valuables
⚠️ Be ready to leave – conditions can change quickly so be alert and ready to act

The Marquette County Sheriff’s Office has established an evacuation center at Negaunee Township Hall, located at 42 East State Hwy M-35 in Negaunee. The Red Cross will be assisting evacuees and their pets at this location

Additional updates will be provided if the fire progresses to the point that triggers the “Go!” status.

10/06/2026

Thank You, Senator Cherry!

Lowering costs and standing up for workers go hand in hand.

That's why Senate Democrats once again passed a package of bills to help working families, strengthen protections, and restore earned retirement benefits for Michigan's correction, conservation, and motor carrier officers. Now it's time for the House to stop the delays and act.

Learn more at link in comments.

10/01/2026

A new national report projects that the United States will need to fill approximately 1.7 million skilled trades openings each year through 2035, while current training programs are producing only about 55 workers for every 100 needed.

For MSEA, these are more than numbers. Skilled tradespeople are an important part of our membership and the work that keeps Michigan running.

All over the state, mechanics, electricians, plumbers, welders, carpenters, transportation maintenance workers, plant operators and other skilled professionals bring experience, training and expertise to jobs that our state depends on.

As demand for these professionals continues to grow, so should the recognition and respect for those doing the work.

Take a look at the report and explore the data:

https://skilledtradesreport.com/the-state-of-americas-skilled-trades.pdf

09/17/2026

MSEA is proud to recognize Motor Carrier Officer Edward Ricklefs, who was among 15 Michigan State Police members honored with the prestigious Hundred Club of Detroit Valor Award.

Officer Ricklefs was recognized for his role in the apprehension of a dangerous, armed individual in Wexford County.

We are proud to have Officer Ricklefs as an MSEA member and grateful for the professionalism, courage, and commitment he demonstrates in service to the people of Michigan.

Congratulations, Officer Ricklefs, on this well deserved recognition! 👏

09/15/2026

Today, we take time to remember Motor Carrier Officer Daniel M. Kerstetter, an MSEA member who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the people of Michigan.

We remember his dedication, honor his service, and keep his family, friends, and fellow Motor Carrier Officers in our thoughts.

His service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

09/11/2026

Today, we honor the 25th anniversary of the nearly 3,000 lives taken on September 11, 2001.

Whether you witnessed the attacks or have heard stories from those who did, we remember not only the tragedy of that day, but the extraordinary examples of service, duty, and sacrifice that followed.

When others were running from danger, first responders, public safety professionals, and public servants answered the call. They did their jobs under unimaginable circumstances, often without knowing what the next moment would bring. Along with the victims of the attack, many who responded payed the ultimate sacrifice and many more have since succumbed to the toxins and particles they inhaled over a period of weeks and months.

For those who have chosen a career in public service, that sense of duty still carries meaning. Service is a commitment to show up when you are needed, to look out for others, and to do your part for the communities and people who depend on you. The brave men and women who responded that day exemplified this, and for that we are forever grateful.

Join MSEA in remembering their service and honoring their sacrifice.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day from the MSEA Family to yours!

08/10/2026

Conservation Officers are an essential part of our communities. Thank You for your unwavering dedication and service. Great job by all the Officers involved and the men and women who trained them.

07/29/2026

After these bills were vetoed following the Michigan Senate Democrats' successful lawsuit, I'm proud to reintroduce legislation to expand retirement options for Michigan's corrections, conservation, and other law enforcement officers.

These dedicated public servants deserve pension benefits that reflect the challenging and dangerous work they do every day - and stronger pension options will help recruit and retain the workforce Michiganders depend on.

Read more: bit.ly/CherryPensionBills