Detroit Police Commissioner Darious Morris, representing District 3 on the Board of Police Commissioners (BOPC), has chosen to remain in his role amid growing controversy surrounding his past felonies and recent interactions with law enforcement. The 38-year-old official, who began his tenure on December 17, has been at the center of contention for his assertive manner with police, documented by WXYZ-TV.
Morris, who describes himself as "the People's Commissioner," was elected in November as a write-in candidate. His confrontational approach came to light when he reportedly intervened during officers' assistance to a drug-overdose victim, leading to a formal complaint being filed by Morris after an officer expressed they were trying to help someone. Additionally, his refusal to pass through a metal detector at a precinct and subsequent instructions to an officer to write up their information have also raised eyebrows.
Tensions further escalated when Morris publicly demanded the removal of a white commander from the 9th Precinct over claims of racial bias, as stated in a now-deleted social media post. These actions have drawn criticism from national police groups, with William Johnson, head of the National Association of Police Organizations, describing Morris' behavior as "alarming" and counterproductive to his pledged goal of fostering better relations between Detroit youth and the police department.
Morris' criminal record, which includes convictions for felony fraud and impersonating a public officer dating back to 2009, has also resurfaced in public discourse. In 2023, he was involved in a traffic stop incident in Warren, where he falsely claimed to be a Detroit Police Department chaplain and presented a badge purchased online. This incident, captured on bodycam footage, concluded with Morris pleading guilty to assaulting, resisting, or obstructing a police officer and receiving probation.
Initially, Morris hinted at a possible resignation to prevent tarnishing the BOPC's reputation. However, his legal representation, attorney Mohammad Azeem, later stated that Morris would not be stepping down. Legal matters remain unresolved as Wayne County prosecutors consider refiling weapons charges from 2021 that were dismissed due to an officer's absence.
Amidst the turmoil, Morris has defended his actions as efforts to enhance oversight and improve the rapport between the police and the community, asserting his desire to show growth beyond his past missteps. Nevertheless, his continued presence on the Board has left both law enforcement and community leaders questioning the future impact on the department's public relations. The weeks ahead are poised to reveal whether Morris' methods will engender trust or incite further discord.
