04/02/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Statement from the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police on Kent County Prosecutor’s decision not to charge Grand Rapids Police Department Officers.
The Michigan Fraternal Order of Police strongly supports Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker’s decision not to authorize criminal charges against the Grand Rapids Police Department officers involved in the recent officer-involved shooting.
The loss of life in this incident is tragic, and it should never be minimized. However, the facts in this case are clear. The officers were confronted with an immediate and deadly threat and responded as they are trained and legally required to do. The prosecutor’s review confirmed what the evidence has shown from the beginning: the use of force was justified under Michigan law.
Law enforcement officers are not afforded the luxury of hindsight. They are called upon to make split-second decisions in dangerous, rapidly evolving situations where hesitation can cost lives. When officers are forced to defend themselves or others from a deadly threat, the law is clear, and so is the expectation placed upon them.
We are increasingly seeing officers subjected to intense public scrutiny and premature judgment before the facts are fully known. Charging decisions must be based on evidence and legal standards, not public pressure or narrative. In this case, the prosecutor applied the law correctly and reached the only conclusion supported by the facts.
The Michigan Fraternal Order of Police will continue to stand firmly behind its members when they act lawfully and in the line of duty. Our officers deserve fairness, due process, and the presumption that they are performing their duties in good faith until proven otherwise.
We support these officers, we support the decision, and we will continue to advocate for the men and women who protect our communities every day.
