An off-duty police officer in Port Huron has been charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated, as officials announced on Thursday. The case came to light when the Port Huron Police Department became aware of the allegations against the officer last Friday, leading to a swift internal investigation, The Detroit News reported.
The unnamed officer was arrested after the investigation by their own department's command staff and was detained at the St. Clair County Intervention Center. "The officer was lodged at the St. Clair County Intervention Center until they were sober. They were then released pending a case review by the St. Clair County Prosecutor’s Office," Assistant Chief Brian Kerrigan said, as per The Detroit News.
Following the review, the St. Clair County Prosecutor’s Office authorized the criminal charges on Wednesday, as confirmed by ClickOnDetroit. The officer has since been placed on administrative leave and is awaiting a comprehensive internal investigation by the Port Huron Police Department.
Police Chief Joseph Platzer emphasized the department's dedication to upholding the law amongst its ranks. "The Port Huron Police Department holds its officers to a high standard on and off duty. When these actions fall short of meeting these expectations, we will continue to hold ourselves accountable," Platzer stated, in a sentiment echoed across the sources, including the coverage by Mid-Michigan NOW. The details of the circumstances leading to the officer's arrest have not been disclosed to the public.
