Detroit’s Controversial Law Enforcement Hiring Practices under Scrutiny
Detroit, a city known for its rich history and resilient spirit, is currently facing challenges with its law enforcement hiring practices. One case in particular has raised eyebrows across the community: the appointment of Jamonte Horton as a Wayne County Sheriff’s Deputy despite a troubled past with multiple police departments.
A Troubling Record
Horton’s journey in law enforcement has been anything but smooth. His career began at Wayne State Police, where he quickly ran into trouble after being involved in a party incident that led to a shooting. Following this turbulent start, he resigned in 2015. He then moved on to the Ypsilanti Police Department but was soon in hot water for various issues, including falling asleep while on duty and even sharing inappropriate content with colleagues. Instead of reform, Horton faced disciplinary actions that ultimately led to his resignation in 2019.
Not deterred by his past, Horton continued seeking work in law enforcement. He joined the Highland Park Police Department, but this brought yet more chaos—engaging in reckless behavior, such as handing his assault weapon to a security guard and driving recklessly without checking on the drivers he collided with.
The Final Straw
Horton’s last significant disciplinary incident occurred in 2022. Despite orders from his superiors to avoid a high-speed chase between Detroit and Michigan State Police, he chose to get involved, even attempting to turn off his body camera during the pursuit. Internal investigations found that he had not only disobeyed orders but also made several false statements.
After facing termination, he resigned once again, and just weeks later, he found a new position as a deputy with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. This situation raises an important question: how could someone with such a checkered history find a career in law enforcement?
Staffing Shortages and Controversial Decisions
The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office has been struggling with significant understaffing, needing at least 344 deputies. Faced with this shortage, the county has been taking measures, including pay increases to attract new recruits. Yet, the hiring of Horton seems to defy logic to many community members and local officials. Wayne County Commissioner Glenn Anderson stated it was “surprising” to see someone with Horton’s background in law enforcement.
In a recent budget meeting, Sheriff Raphael Washington commented on Horton’s hiring, claiming that the department “never lowers standards.” However, critics are keen to know what “standards” were employed when Horton was brought on board. Washington insisted he wasn’t aware of Horton’s troubled past, even though his name had appeared in a request to reactivate his law enforcement license—a request ultimately denied due to concerns about his character fitness.
Community Impact and Future Implications
The presence of deputies like Horton can have a lasting impact on community trust in law enforcement. “Victims are the reason why police departments are in business,” said Ricardo Moore, a Detroit Police Commissioner. The ongoing question is whether Horton’s appointment will contribute positively to community safety or further erode public confidence in local policing.
While the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office may have justified Horton’s hiring based on immediate staffing needs, the question remains: how will the community respond to a deputy whose past raises serious concerns about his capability and willingness to fulfill the duties of his position? With his law enforcement license inactive, Horton currently operates within the sheriff’s office, leaving many asking what the future holds for both him and the residents of Detroit.
The recent discussions and complaints surrounding Horton emphasize a wider need for transparent evaluation processes in police hiring. Engaging the community in conversations about such critical issues can pave the way for better policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of all residents.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
