Mayor accused of violating police union contract in Dearborn Heights

In Dearborn Heights, Michigan, the mayor has faced serious allegations regarding recent police department appointments, which are said to breach the city's Police Supervisor's Association contract. The city's Police Supervisor's Association has taken action by filing grievances and unlawful labor practice claims against Mayor Bill Bazzi, asserting that his recent appointments were made in violation of both the union contract and relevant laws governing police commission practices. This controversy arose late last year when Bazzi appointed two deputy chiefs from outside the department, a move the union argues contradicts established protocols that require such positions to be filled internally. The fallout from these appointments has led to significant unrest within the police department. Union President Nick Szopko expressed concerns about the ongoing impact on public safety, noting the department's reduced staffing levels due to the departure of officers through resignations and retirements. As Szopko outlined, there were 80 sworn officers when Bazzi took office, but that number has dwindled to only 40, creating a challenging environment for operational effectiveness and community safety. Moreover, additional claims have emerged regarding an investigation into alleged misconduct related to ticket-fixing involving the demoted Interim Chief Hussein Farhat. Tensions have escalated to the point where city residents have publicly rallied in support of their police force at city council meetings. Approximately 200 community members gathered to voice their concerns over the mayor’s actions. Interestingly, records suggest that Bazzi has denied these allegations publicly, asserting that there have been no demotions or investigations within the police leadership team. This statement has been met with skepticism from council members, who claim the mayor is misrepresenting the situation, further fueling divisions between the leadership and the police union. The ongoing dispute continues to create challenges for the department and raises questions about the integrity and functioning of leadership under Mayor Bazzi. Many police department employees are reportedly anxious about the atmosphere of fear and potential retaliation coupled with recent developments. The Democrats and residents assert calls for transparency and adherence to the contractual obligations as specified by the police union, highlighting the urgent need for the mayor to address these serious concerns.