LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Jim Runestad, R-White Lake, on Thursday released the following statement after Deputy Director Lt. Col. Aimee Brimacombe announced she will retire from her position with the Michigan State Police:
“This is an overdue step forward for the Michigan State Police, but it should not take months to carry out. This transition needs to happen as soon as possible to begin restoring public trust in the MSP and morale within the agency, which reached an all-time low under this disastrous leadership.
“For over a year now, scandal after scandal has been coming out of the MSP — from rigged promotions, lawsuits, questionable department payouts and the complete collapse of morale among troopers. The tenures of Brimacombe and Director Col. James Grady include being caught trying to write themselves bonus checks, misusing department cars, and even giving out a nearly $1 million payout to someone Brimacombe was close to.
“I joined my colleagues in calling for the resignation of Grady and Brimacombe after these shady dealings came to light and after an astounding majority of MSP troopers voiced their lack of confidence in their leadership.
“While I am relieved to hear of her departure, Brimacombe should have immediately issued her resignation or been removed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer instead of being able to quietly retire. I hope the MSP can heal from the failed leadership and horrendous atmosphere the two created within the state’s top police force.
“Michigan State Police troopers deserve immediate change at the top. One down, one to go. Col. Grady sits at the top of the pyramid, and he must be next.”
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