Office of Oversight and Public Accountability - Grand Rapids

06/17/2026

In response to the City Commission's request, the City Manager directed the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability (OPA) to undertake a benchmarking analysis of peer jurisdictions and nationally recognized professional associations related to the Grand Rapids Police Department's (GRPD) canine policy, MOP 6-8.1. The review identifies areas where written policy could be clarified or strengthened to better align with peer-city practices and nationally recognized sources, particularly in how canine operations integrate with the department's broader force-governance, accountability, and community-protection frameworks.

This report is a policy-level benchmarking study, it is not a legal opinion.

The report can be accessed here:

This website uses cookies to enhance usability and provide you with a more personal experience. By using this website, you agree to our use of cookies as explained in our Privacy Policy.

05/30/2026

OPA was made aware of an officer-involved shooting that occurred on today, May 30, 2026, in Grand Rapids. According to policy, officer-involved shootings are investigated by the Michigan State Police. A graphic outlining the roles and responsibilities of the involved agencies is provided below.

OPA has partnered with the Wisdom Center to provide free trauma-informed mental health services to community members who desire assistance with navigating this incident. Appointments can be scheduled with the Wisdom Center by contacting (616) 419-8103.

The Grand Rapids Police Department released the below statement regarding the officer-involved shooting.
______________________________________________


May 30th, 2026

At approximately 1:15pm, officers responded to the 1000 block of Alpine NW for a domestic situation regarding an individual who was armed with a knife and threatening to injure family members.

As officers were arriving on scene, the suspect exited the residence and threw a lit Molotov cocktail at officers. A Molotov cocktail is an incendiary device that can cause serious injury or death. The Molotov cocktail ignited on a police cruiser. Officers then attempted to use less-lethal options, but the suspect did not comply.

While Officers were on scene trying to negotiate with the suspect, he fled the residence. The suspect then unsuccessfully attempted to carjack an individual at knife point. The suspect continued running and attempted to enter another residence. A police K9 was utilized in an effort to apprehend the suspect. The suspect stabbed the police K9 multiple times and then charged at officers with a knife. Officers attempted to utilize another less lethal option, but the suspect did not comply.

An Officer fired their department-issued weapon, striking the suspect multiple times. The suspect succumbed to his injuries on scene.

The Michigan State police responded to investigate the Officer involved shooting, as per procedure. The Officer is on administrative leave, also per procedure.

NOTE: Information is preliminary and may change as the investigation unfolds.

04/09/2026

Know your rights. Know your power.

The City of Grand Rapids Office of Oversight and Public Accountability is offering Know Your Rights trainings designed to equip our community with the information, confidence, and tools needed to navigate real-life situations.

Whether it’s understanding your rights during interactions or knowing how accountability works in our city, this training is for you.

Check the flyer for dates, times, and location details and make plans to join us. Bring a friend and stay informed.

04/03/2026

The City of Grand Rapids has partnered with The Wisdom Center, 1333 Alger St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49507, to offer free counseling and mental health services throughout the Month of April to community members who would like support in processing officer involved shootings. Community members may schedule an appointment by calling The Wisdom Center at 616-419-8103.

Additionally, The City has released statements in response to Prosecutor Becker’s decision in the most recent Officer involved shooting. A link to the statement is available in the comments.

03/27/2026

Both the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability and the City of Grand Rapids Office of Equity and Engagement remain committed to elevating resident voice in city operations and staying connected to the community we serve.

This week, that commitment was on full display as we participated in the SAFE Taskforce’s First Annual Community Event. SAFE (Safe Alliances For Everyone) is an anti-violence initiative dedicated to reducing violence in our communities. A special shoutout to OPA’s Civilian Violence Prevention & Intervention Manager, Latesha Lipscomb, who serves as the liaison to SAFE and did an incredible job creating a space for meaningful connection between community members and city leaders.

Additionally, members of OPA and OEE had the opportunity to attend the Mayor’s State of the City Address. It was a great time connecting with so many residents and partners who care deeply about our city.

We’re excited about what’s ahead for Grand Rapids and grateful to be part of the work that continues to move our community forward.

03/12/2026

City of Grand Rapids Administrative Policy 15-02 requires that all officer-involved shootings be investigated by the Michigan State Police. In accordance with this policy, and to ensure independence, the criminal investigation in every officer-involved shooting is conducted by the Michigan State Police rather than the Grand Rapids Police Department.

Once the Michigan State Police complete their investigation, their findings are submitted to the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office. The Prosecutor’s Office reviews the evidence and determines whether criminal charges are warranted.

Separately, the Grand Rapids Police Department conducts an internal administrative investigation to determine whether the involved officers complied with department policies and procedures. After the internal review is completed, the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability independently reviews the available evidence, evaluates the department’s internal investigation, and conducts a comprehensive audit of the process and findings.

The Office of Oversight and Public Accountability will publicly release the results of its audit—redacted only as required by law—as promptly as possible.

This layered process is designed to promote fairness, reduce actual or perceived conflicts of interest, and strengthen public confidence in the review of officer-involved shootings. The City of Grand Rapids remains committed to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that policing in our community meets the highest professional standards while preserving the integrity of ongoing investigations.

Below is a chart outlining the roles and responsibilities of each entity involved in this process.

The City of Grand Rapids has partnered with the Wisdom Center to offer free counseling and mental health services throughout the Month of March to community members who would like support in processing officer involved shootings.

Community members may schedule an appointment by calling The Wisdom Center at 616-419-8103.