Warren Police Department officer Jack Barnes is on administrative leave after being accused of taking money from the Police Explorer Program, a youth charity for children interested in law enforcement. The issue was reported in July after a charity event by a senior command officer. Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said, "Our justice system does not bend for titles or badges. In Macomb County, the law applies equally to every individual," and stated that Barnes is presumed innocent until proven guilty, according to CBS News Detroit.
Barnes, a two-year member of the Warren Police Department, is accused of taking between $200 and $1,000 from the Police Explorer Program. The Macomb County Sheriff's Office handled the case, issuing an arrest warrant and arraignment. FOX 2 Detroit reported that Barnes was released on a $5,000 personal recognizance bond and is scheduled to appear in court on November 18.
Warren Police Commissioner Eric Hawkins addressed accusations against Officer Barnes, saying, "Any time an officer falls short of our standards, it hurts the entire Department and community. But our integrity and professionalism are defined by how we respond," as per Audacy. He confirmed the Police Explorer Program will continue and said the department, which has over 200 members, is focused on the integrity and service of its officers while Barnes faces legal proceedings.
