A Detroit police officer made headlines after attending a virtual court hearing on Oct. 27 wearing the top half of his uniform — but no pants.
Officer Matthew Jackson introduced himself to the district courtroom via Zoom wearing only his underwear below the waist. Judge Sean Perkins, taken aback, asked the question rarely heard in a courtroom:
“You got some pants on, officer?”
“No, sir,” Jackson admitted before adjusting the camera to hide his lower half.
The hearing, which involved a woman accused of drag racing and disorderly conduct, continued despite the unusual distraction. Attorney TaTaNisha Reed, representing the defendant, said she was stunned.
“I was trying to figure it out. Am I seeing what I think I’m seeing? Especially with a police officer,” Reed said. “I said, ‘Judge, he needs to alter his camera,’ and that’s when the judge responded, ‘Oh.’”
The Detroit Police Department has launched an investigation and said it will remind officers of proper court attire and etiquette.
Judge Perkins’ reaction was one of surprise, according to 36th District Courts Chief Judge William McConico. “He was shocked. Officer Jackson is someone he’s known,” McConico said. Despite the unusual situation, Perkins decided to continue the proceedings, noting that Jackson has a long history of professionalism.
“He’s always been very courteous to the citizens, and that’s why it was a little bit stunning,” McConico said.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison emphasized that officers are expected to present themselves professionally in court. “The involved officer’s actions are not representative of the professionalism of this department and will be appropriately addressed to maintain public confidence and ensure the efficient operation of this department,” he said, offering apologies to all who attended the hearing.