Great Lakes Wire

Attorney General Dana Nessel has taken a significant step towards advocating for transparency within law enforcement organizations by filing an amicus brief in the Court of Claims. The case at hand, Invisible Institute and Detroit Metro Times v Michigan State Police, involves a lawsuit under Michigan's Freedom of Information Act, aiming to disclose the names of certified Michigan police officers. Nessel's brief was filed in support of the plaintiffs seeking this disclosure.

In her statement, Nessel emphasized the importance of transparency in law enforcement, stating, "Transparency is vital to accountability, and to law enforcement’s commitment to serving their communities." She clarified that the plaintiffs are not requesting sensitive information such as officers' home addresses or the identification of officers in undercover roles.

The amicus brief highlights that over 30 states, apart from Michigan, publicly disclose the names of their law enforcement officers in response to Freedom of Information Act requests or similar lawsuits. Despite claims by the Michigan State Police that releasing these names could jeopardize officer safety, evidence from other states that have disclosed such information shows no increase in targeting of police officers.

Furthermore, it is noted that the Department of Attorney General is representing the Michigan State Police in this lawsuit. To address any conflicts of interest, the Department has established a conflict wall within the office to allow the Attorney General to take a contrary position on the matter.

The case is set for oral argument before Judge Christopher Yates on April 9, where the arguments for and against the disclosure of certified Michigan police officers' names will be further deliberated.