Full Breakdown
Detroit Police Sergeant Files Lawsuit After Suspension for Contacting Border Patrol
2/24/2026, 10:45:52 PM
Incident Overview: Suspension of Officers
Detroit Police Sergeant Denise Wallet and another officer were suspended without pay for 30 days after contacting U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) during a traffic stop on February 9, 2023. The officers were accused of violating department policy, which prohibits cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. Wallet's actions were prompted by a request from her lieutenant to assist in identifying a driver who presented a fraudulent Michigan driver's license. Following the incident, Wallet filed a federal lawsuit claiming her due process rights were violated.
Background: Department Policy and Community Context
The Detroit Police Department has a policy that explicitly prohibits officers from engaging in immigration enforcement or treating individuals differently based on immigration status. This policy is particularly significant in Detroit, a city with a large immigrant population and a notable presence of border patrol agents due to its proximity to Canada. Wallet's attorney, Solomon Radner, argues that her actions were mischaracterized and did not constitute a violation of department policy, as she sought assistance solely for identification purposes.
Legal Proceedings: Lawsuit and Claims
Wallet's lawsuit alleges that her suspension was unjust and that she was acting under her lieutenant's direction when she contacted CBP. The lawsuit also claims that the department's policy infringes on federal law, which allows local law enforcement to communicate with immigration authorities. Wallet's attorney contends that the call to Border Patrol was made to confirm the driver's identity after a fingerprint scanner failed, not to enforce immigration laws.
Official Statements & Responses
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison initially sought to terminate both officers involved but later opted for a 30-day suspension after the Board of Police Commissioners intervened. Bettison emphasized the importance of maintaining community trust and stated, “This incident should make it clear, however, that as Chief, I will continue to vigorously enforce DPD’s policies.” In contrast, Michigan Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib supported the disciplinary actions taken against the officers, highlighting the need for community trust in law enforcement.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the suspension, including Wallet's attorney, argue that the disciplinary actions taken against Wallet and her colleague were excessive and misinformed. Radner expressed concern that Chief Bettison may have acted on incorrect information regarding Wallet's actions. Additionally, some political figures, like Michigan House Republican leader Matt Hall, suggested that the department's actions could prompt a review of its policies, labeling the potential firing of the officers as “unacceptable.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Wallet's attorney maintains that her actions were justified and within the scope of her duties, retired Detroit Police Assistant Chief Steve Dolunt stated that contacting CBP during routine stops clearly violates department policy. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing debate regarding the interpretation of the department's rules and the implications of local law enforcement's interaction with federal immigration authorities.
What's Next: Future Developments
As the lawsuit progresses, Wallet seeks to prevent her termination and regain her position within the Detroit Police Department. The outcome of this case may have broader implications for police policies regarding immigration enforcement and the relationship between local law enforcement and federal agencies.
