Leadership Crisis Hits Michigan State Police Amidst No Confidence Vote
A leadership crisis has emerged within the Michigan State Police (MSP) following a significant vote of no confidence from its core members. The Michigan State Police Troopers Association (MSPTA) and the Michigan State Police Command Officers Association (MSPCOA) have jointly demanded the resignation of the top two officials, citing a loss of support from essential employees.
In a letter released Monday, MSPTA and MSPCOA leaders called on Colonel James Grady, Director of the MSP, and Lieutenant Colonel Aimee Brimacombe, Chief Deputy Director, to step down from their positions. The letter notes these leaders “have lost the support of [their] essential employees” and are unable to fulfill the department’s leadership mission.
This move follows a contested “no confidence” vote previously held by the MSPTA, which was corroborated by an anonymous electronic poll conducted alongside the MSPCOA. Participation in the poll was high, with over 75% of members from each organization casting their vote.
The results were stark: over 90% of MSPCOA participants and an overwhelming 98% of MSPTA members expressed no confidence in the current leadership. The letter was signed by Nate Johnson, President of MSPTA, and Paul M. Pummill, Executive Director of MSPCOA.
Reacting to the vote, Michigan Senate Civil Rights, Judiciary and Public Safety Minority Vice Chair Jim Runestad (R-White Lake) also urged the two officials to resign. “An astounding majority — over 1,000 of Michigan’s finest — have said that they have no confidence in their leaders,” Runestad stated in a statement. He further suggested that Governor Gretchen Whitmer should intervene by relieving them of their duties if they do not resign independently.
Meanwhile, MSP spokesperson Shanon Banner defended the leadership of Colonel Grady, emphasizing his commitment to supporting department members. “Michigan State Police Director Col. James F. Grady II and his leadership team provide unwavering support to department members and are proud of the public safety services delivered every day,” Banner said. She highlighted Grady’s efforts to engage with staff during worksite visits, discussing morale and potential improvements.
Under Grady’s leadership, the MSP has prioritized investments in training, professional development, updated equipment, and technology improvements. Moreover, recent efforts have resulted in the addition of new troopers, and budget proposals include pay raises for troopers and sergeants. According to Banner, Grady remains focused on advancing the department while upholding its tradition of service excellence.
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