State police director deserves credit for empathy and transparency | Letter

On June 12, the Free Press reported that the Michigan State Police Department was in turmoil amid Flint promotion scandals and high-level departures. On June 14, the Free Press reported that people inside and outside the department were "rankled" by MSP Col. James Grady's response to an incident in April in which a trooper driving an unmarked police vehicle hit and killed a fleeing suspect. The topic has elicited multiple letters from readers with opposing viewpoints.

In the wake of the tragic death of Samuel Sterling, involving a state trooper, Michigan State Police Director Col. James Grady exemplified the bold leadership that Gov. Gretchen Whitmer recognized in him.  

Without delay, he engaged directly with the community, providing timely information and encouraging open dialogue. After the incident, Grady spoke with empathy as an African American father.  He expressed his firsthand experience of community pain when African American lives are lost in encounters with law enforcement officers. His personal meetings with the Sterling family and Grand Rapids leaders underscore his commitment to empathy and understanding during times of crisis.  

Amidst a national outcry for police accountability, Grady stands out as a beacon of responsiveness and responsibility. His actions demonstrate a steadfast dedication to justice and a profound commitment to upholding the highest standards of policing for all Michiganders. In a remarkably short time, Grady has bolstered trust within the community, by embracing transparency and forging strong partnerships. He sets a powerful example for law enforcement leaders nationwide, emphasizing that effective policing begins with genuine engagement and a steadfast commitment to equitable service. 

Grady's career spans nearly three decades within the MSP. Starting as a trooper in 1998, Grady progressed through various leadership roles, including fraud investigation, emergency management, and recruit training. He has advanced modern law enforcement practices and evidence-based strategies, and he has served with integrity and dedication.  

Grady is not just leading change; he is embodying it. The community deserves police leaders, like Grady, who are empathetic but strong.  

I commend Grady for his leadership and encourage him to continue making decisions that, while possibly unpopular with some, ultimately serve the best interests of policing in Michigan.  

As I think about the future of law enforcement, I believe, we must trust and empower police leaders to make bold decisions that challenge the status quo, advance diversity within the police profession, and promote respect, fairness and transparency in encounters with the community.  

I stand behind Grady and his efforts to lead the Michigan State Police, holding the department true to its values of excellence, integrity and courtesy. He will continue to advance the profession of law enforcement, and lead his agency with dignity and integrity. 

Brenda Goss Andrews 

The writer is a retired deputy chief of the Detroit Police Department, where she served for 30 years. She also served as the 45th president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) and as chairperson of the NOBLE National Civil Rights Committee.