The Detroit Police Department has instigated an internal affairs investigation into the circumstances surrounding a traffic stop involving Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams. The incident in question, which occurred on October 8, revolved around a firearm found in Williams' vehicle, and the subsequent decision not to arrest the NFL player despite him not possessing the required concealed pistol license (CPL), as reported by WWJ Newsradio 950 and multiple other sources.
According to WXYZ-TV, Williams and his brother were pulled over just after midnight for speeding. During the stop, police discovered two guns in the car – one registered to Williams' brother who had a valid CPL, and another under Williams' seat, for which Williams did not have a CPL. The officer on the scene initiated arrest procedures, unaware of Williams' status as a professional athlete, despite Williams' repeated reminders of his identity, "I play for the Lions, bro. I’m Jameson Williams."
In a turn of events that is now under investigation, body camera footage showed that a sergeant who arrived later recognized Williams and made several calls to superiors which resulted in the player's release from custody. "You’re a (expletive) hero. Thank you so much," the sergeant is heard saying after receiving direction over the phone. This interaction has raised questions about potential preferential treatment given Williams' stature as an athlete, as detailed by WXYZ-TV.
Following inquiries by WXYZ-TV and other outlets, Detroit Police Commander Michael McGinnis expressed discontent with the situation saying, "I want to know if the fact that this individual was a Detroit Lions player, did that play a factor in the decision making?" The incident also sparked a reaction from the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, which is reviewing a warrant request for Williams for the charge of carrying a concealed weapon in a motor vehicle.
The Detroit Lions offered brief commentary on the incident: "Jameson made us aware immediately that he was a passenger in a routine traffic stop on October 8th. We discussed the incident with him and have kept the league informed of what we know," the team said in a statement obtained by The Detroit Free Press. "We understand he was released without incident or citation. It is now our understanding that the Detroit Police Department is revisiting the matter." Williams, having retained legal representation, refrains from further comment as legal processes unfold. "On October 8, my clients were pulled over for an alleged traffic violation. During the course of the stop, my clients were both cooperative and respectful with the police officers," Todd Flood, Williams' attorney, added in a statement obtained by WXYZ-TV.
