Detroit mayor’s plans to nominate convicted murderer for police board angers some officers

Detroit mayor’s nominee choice angers some police

DETROIT — Detroit Mayor Dave Bing’s plans to nominate a convicted murderer to serve on a panel that disciplines police officers is rankling some current and former officers.

City Council President Pro Tem Gary Brown, a former Detroit police officer, tells The Detroit News he has “serious concerns” about a convicted murderer sitting on the Board of Police Commissioners.

But Raphael B. Johnson’s supporters, including Deputy Mayor Saul Green, say he’s a good fit for the panel that also sets department policy. Green says Johnson is an inspiration because he’s turned his life around.

Johnson served 12 years for second-degree murder for a killing he committed at 17. Since his 2004 prison release, he’s become a motivational speaker and appeared on national television.

Information from: The Detroit News, www.detnews.com