A Detroit police officer has been suspended with pay pending an internal investigation after allegedly sending inappropriate text messages to his 12-year-old stepdaughter, sparking outrage from the community and the child’s family.
The incident came to light through social media posts that circulated widely over the weekend, exposing explicit content and raising serious concerns about child safety.
According to sources close to the investigation, the officer, whose identity has not been officially released, is accused of attempting to engage in s3xually suggestive conversations with the minor via text messages.
Screenshots shared by a family member—who claimed to have discovered the exchanges—show the officer allegedly making explicit remarks and soliciting responses from the girl.
The Detroit Police Department confirmed the suspension on Monday, March 10, stating that the officer has been removed from active duty while the Professional Standards Section conducts a thorough probe.
Police Chief James White addressed the allegations in a brief statement, calling them “deeply disturbing” and emphasising the department’s commitment to accountability.
“We hold our officers to the highest standards, and any behaviour that violates that trust will be met with swift action,” White said.
The investigation has also been referred to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office to determine if criminal charges are warranted.
The girl’s mother, who is married to the officer, reportedly alerted authorities after uncovering the messages. Family members expressed their fury in interviews with local media, with the child’s aunt telling WXYZ Detroit, “This is a betrayal beyond words.
She’s just a kid—she should’ve been safe with him.” Community advocates echoed the sentiment, rallying outside the officer’s precinct on Monday to demand justice and stronger safeguards for children in similar situations.
Netizens amplified the story, with hashtags like #ProtectOurKids trending locally as users condemned the officer’s alleged actions. “A cop preying on his own stepdaughter? Disgusting,” one post read, while others called for transparency in the investigation.
The viral spread of the screenshots has intensified public scrutiny, though police have urged caution, noting that the authenticity of the messages remains under review.
The officer, a five-year veteran of the force, has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.
Legal experts suggest that if substantiated, the case could lead to charges ranging from child endangerment to criminal s3xual conduct, depending on the evidence.
For now, the Detroit community waits anxiously for answers, grappling with the fallout of a scandal that has shaken trust in those sworn to protect.
