A man who identified himself as a Detroit police officer appeared to have no pants on during a court hearing on Monday, WDIV reported.
The man, who identified himself as Officer Matthew Jackson of the Detroit Police Department, was wearing boxers but did not appear to be wearing any pants, the outlet reported. He appeared in the 36th District Court via Zoom on Monday in a hearing for a reckless driving and public intoxication case, the report said.
“The Detroit Police Department requires its officers to represent themselves in a dignified and professional manner while attending court proceedings,” Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison said in a statement to Newsweek. “The involved officer’s actions are not representative of the professionalism of this department.”
Newsweek reached out to the 36th District Court for comment.
Why It Matters
On its website, the 36th District Court states that “casual business attire is preferred.”
“Prohibited attire includes shorts [cut-offs], skorts, sleeveless shirts [tank tops], hats/caps [except those worn for cultural or religious purposes] and other clothing which is not suitable in a Court or any other professional environment,” the website states.
What To Know
The man also wore a button-down uniform shirt with a badge, WDIV reported.
The judge asked the man, “You got some pants on, officer?” according to the outlet.
The man adjusted his camera so the lower part of his body was not visible and said, “No, sir.”
District Court Chief Judge William McConico told 7 News Detroit that he spoke with the judge presiding over the hearing, Judge Sean Perkins, about the incident.
“He wanted to stress to me that Officer Jackson is a very professional police officer, he’s always been very courteous to the citizens, and that’s why it was a little bit stunning,” McConico told the outlet.
What People Are Saying
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison, in a statement to Newsweek: “Our apologies are hereby extended to the judges and staff of the court, as well as anyone else who may have been in attendance during this incident.”
36th District Court Chief Judge William McConico, told 7 News Detroit: “I spoke with Judge Perkins, because I wanted to know, you know, what went through his mind with how he handled the case. He was stunned, obviously. He was shocked. Officer Jackson is a person he’s known.”
What Happens Next
Bettison said the officer’s actions “will be appropriately addressed to maintain the public confidence and efficient operation of this department.”
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