Michigan State Police

News Release - Budget Reinforces Commitment to Keep Michigan Communities Safe With the passage of a balanced and bipartisan budget for fiscal year 2027, the Michigan State Police (MSP) has maintained funding for victim support programs, the OK2Say student safety tipline and other important public safety initiatives. Ongoing investments into the MSP have increased by more than $250 million during Governor Whitmer’s administration. “Governor Whitmer has made a commitment to investing in public safety and this budget delivers on that,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP. “Every Michigander should be able to safely enjoy what makes our state great like gathering with friends outdoors, relaxing inside of your home and driving along rural roads and city streets. We are fortunate to have graduated more than 750 troopers during Governor Whitmer’s administration, with another 65 currently enrolled in recruit school.” Investments that support public safety include: $1.9 million to maintain the MSP Victim Support Program, which supports victims early in their interactions with the criminal justice system while also building partnerships with community organizations in support of victim advocacy. The Victim Support Program has served more than 4,600 individuals since the program began in 2020. $1.7 million to support the OK2SAY student safety program, which allows people to confidentially report potential harm or criminal activities directed at students, school employees and schools. The OK2Say program has received more than 70,000 tips since the program’s inception. $50 million to sustain public safety revenue sharing to counties, cities, villages and townships to enhance public safety and prevent violent crime. $10 million deposit into the Disaster and Emergency Contingency Fund to support immediate response and recovery activities in the event of a disaster or emergency. $23 million to support county prosecutor operations and staffing in an effort to reduce the per attorney caseload. $10 million for the Public Safety Academy Assistance Program administered by the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards. The Public Safety Academy Assistance Program has been providing scholarships to law enforcement agencies across Michigan since 2022 to assist with the costs of training new police recruits. $11.3 million to support in-service training for more than 18,700 law enforcement officers. $1 million for upgrades to the Michigan Public Safety Communications System, which is Michigan’s statewide emergency communications system that keeps more than 2,630 public safety agencies across the state connected. $2.2 million in support of the Prosecuting Attorney's Coordinating Council.

As the weekend approaches, don't forget next week is the MSP Safety Day on Tuesday, July 28. The event takes place at our MSP HQ, 7150 Harris Dr. in Dimondale. Bring the kids down for a great day of safety tips and fun things to do. Hope to see you there.

#NEWSRELEASE July 24, 2026 SWET Search Warrants Result in Heroin and Crack Cocaine Seizures, Two Arrested; Additional Charges Pending VAN BUREN COUNTY, MICH. Detectives with the Southwest Enforcement Team (SWET), assisted by the South Haven Police Department, executed two separate narcotics search warrants on July 23, resulting in the seizure of heroin and crack cocaine, the arrest of two individuals, and additional felony charges being sought against a third suspect. The investigations targeted suspected narcotics trafficking occurring at two separate residences in South Haven. Heroin Investigation SWET detectives executed a search warrant at a residence in the Ravines Mobile Home Park on County Road 388. Several individuals were detained during the search; however, the principal suspect was not present. During the search, detectives recovered more than one-quarter ounce of heroin from a common area of the residence where it was easily accessible to a child living in the home. At the conclusion of the investigation, detectives will seek an arrest warrant for the primary suspect on the following anticipated charges: Possession with Intent to Deliver Heroin – Second Offense Maintaining a Drug House – Second Offense Fourth-Degree Child Abuse The child remained in the care of family members, and Children's Protective Services was notified, as required by law. Crack Cocaine Investigation SWET detectives, assisted by the South Haven Police Department, executed a second residential search warrant, July 23, in the 300 block of Spencer St, as part of a separate narcotics investigation. Prior to the search warrant, South Haven Police officers conducted a traffic stop on the primary suspects and detained them while detectives secured the residence. Inside the home, detectives discovered two minor children home alone. Investigators recovered approximately 11 grams of crack cocaine, along with a digital scale and a box of sandwich baggies commonly used in the packaging and distribution of controlled substances. The narcotics and packaging materials were found on the kitchen table within easy reach of the children. As a result of the investigation: A 33-year-old South Haven man was arrested for: -Possession with Intent to Deliver Crack Cocaine in a School Zone – Second Offense -Maintaining a Drug House – Second Offense -Fourth-Degree Child Abuse A 28-year-old South Haven woman was arrested for: -Maintaining a Drug House -Fourth-Degree Child Abuse The children were released to family members, and Children's Protective Services was contacted in accordance with state law. These investigations highlight SWET's ongoing commitment, alongside its law enforcement partners, to disrupting narcotics trafficking while protecting children from dangerous drug environments. Detectives remain committed to identifying those who distribute illegal narcotics and holding offenders accountable to improve the safety and quality of life throughout southwest Michigan. Anyone with information regarding illegal drug activity is encouraged to email MSP-PROTECT@michigan.gov or leave an anonymous message on the SWET Tip Line at 269-982-8664. Each year in southwest Michigan, more lives are lost to fatal drug overdoses than to fatal motor vehicle crashes and homicides combined. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, help is available. Contact Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health at 800-781-0353 for information about treatment and recovery services. SWET is funded in part by the Michigan High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program and the U.S. Department of Justice Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), administered by the Michigan State Police.

The one-stop Employment Day hiring event in Flint is quickly approaching. If you are interested in being a MSP trooper or motor carrier officer register today! For more information visit, michigan.gov/mspjobs/events….

Upper Peninsula, Michigan. A pre-scheduled joint training exercise involving U.S. military personnel, law enforcement agencies, and emergency response partners will take place July 27-30. Michigan State Police (MSP) personnel and resources will be participating alongside our local, state, and federal partners. Troopers and other local law enforcement will remain available to respond to routine calls for service, public safety needs, and 911 emergencies throughout the exercise. The exercise will begin in Marquette and conclude in Sault Ste. Marie. Throughout the exercise, residents may notice an increased presence of military personnel, law enforcement, specialized vehicles, marine resources, and helicopters. This is only a training exercise, and there is no danger to the public. Local law enforcement including MSP is aware of these pre-planned activities. On Monday, July 27, there will be activity downtown Marquette, including around the Mattson Lower Harbor Park area. On Tuesday, July 28, there will be activity downtown Marquette near the Northern Michigan University campus area and the Marquette Harbor area. On Wednesday, July 29, participating personnel and equipment will travel from the Marquette area to Sault Ste. Marie as part of the exercise. Motorists may experience temporary traffic delays due to slower-moving military and emergency response vehicles. It is anticipated this travel will take place in the afternoon hours, however, could be subject to change. If possible, please allow extra travel time and use caution if encountering the convoy. On Thursday, July 30, there will be activity downtown Sault Ste. Marie, including around the Soo Locks. Some downtown areas near the Soo Locks may be temporarily restricted. People can expect to see helicopters and specialized vehicles in the area during this portion of the exercise. Thank you to our local communities for your patience and support as this training takes place. Exercises like this strengthen interagency coordination and enhance readiness to respond to a wide range of emergencies.

The results are in ‼️ During Monday's five-hour Move Over enforcement initiative, Michigan State Troopers and Motor Carrier Officers made 798 traffic stops across the state. Of those stops, 127 drivers were stopped for failing to move over for emergency vehicles with their emergency lights activated. Every traffic stop represents a preventable risk to first responders working along our roadways. Remember: Michigan's Move Over law requires drivers to move over one lane, when safe to do so, for stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks and other authorized vehicles displaying flashing, rotating or oscillating lights. If changing lanes isn't possible, drivers must slow to at least 10 mph below the posted speed limit and proceed with caution. Additional enforcement included: • Speed: 134 • Seat belt: 8 • Texting: 19 • Window tint: 15 • Other violations: 60

Sometimes, the most important calls for service aren't about making an arrest, they're about helping someone in need. On July 13, Trooper Veltman responded to a well-being check and quickly recognized that the woman he contacted was facing several immediate challenges. She needed reliable transportation, access to a shower, shoes, and other basic necessities. Working with a local business, Trooper Veltman coordinated the donation of replacement tires for her vehicle. The business also generously towed her vehicle and installed the tires at no cost. He then partnered with Victim Services to connect her with additional resources. Thanks to donations from Victim Services and Safety Net Funds, she received a new pair of shoes, essential groceries, a portable shower tent, and transportation to a nearby campground where she was able to shower. The woman later shared her heartfelt appreciation for the kindness, dignity, and respect she was shown. She asked that her thanks be passed along to Trooper Veltman and everyone who helped. While her journey isn't over, she said this act of compassion gave her hope that better days are ahead. This story is a reminder that public service extends beyond enforcement. Every day, our troopers work alongside community partners to connect people with resources, offer support, and make a positive difference, one person at a time. A special thank you to our local business partner, Victim Services, and everyone whose generosity made this possible. Together, we continue to show that compassion and community go hand in hand.

15 teens kicked off the 2026 Northern Michigan Career Academy at Alpena Community College. They were welcomed by members of the Michigan State Police, Alpena County Sheriff’s Office, Alpena Police Department, and Alpena Community College. Students received hands-on experience in evidence collection, defensive tactics, and first aid. We will continue to follow their progress throughout the week!

Scammers are once again targeting people across Southwest Michigan with fake "missed jury duty" calls. Courts (Federal or State) will NEVER call to demand payment or threaten jail time for missing jury duty. They will never ask for payment over the phone or request sensitive information like your Social Security number or birthdate. It's a scam if the caller insists you pay with gift cards, cryptocurrency, payment apps, or wire transfers. If you receive a suspicious call or email, hang up, don't send money, and don't share personal information. If you're unsure, contact the court directly using a verified phone number or visit its official website. Stay alert and help protect others by sharing this warning. Click⬇️for more safety tips: consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alert…

Thanks to Jtv for having D/Sgt Nate Kraus and Lt Jay Barkley on to talk about summer travel and auto theft prevention. Michigan State Police on Summer Travel and Auto Theft Prevention jtv.tv/michigan-state…

#TuesdayTip: Auto theft is more common in summer months. To avoid falling victim to auto theft, be sure to park in well-lit areas, close and lock all windows and doors when you park, keep valuables out of sight, take your keys with you and never leave your vehicle while it’s running.

News Release: michigan.gov/mspnewsroom/ne…

News Release - OK2SAY Reports Second-Highest Tip Volume in System History With 10,777 tips received, the Michigan State Police (MSP) OK2SAY system recorded its second-highest use volume since its 2014 start, highlighting the vital role it plays in safeguarding Michigan’s youth and fostering safer school environments. This finding and others are included in the 2025 OK2SAY Annual Report released on July 21.

Basketball Cop is coming to Inkster! Join the Michigan State Police, Inkster Police Department, and the Basketball Cop Foundation for an afternoon of fun, food, and community engagement! This event will be, Sunday, July 26, 2026 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the Inkster PD Mini Station 4310 Middlebelt Rd. Inkster, MI 48141 This FREE family event will feature: Basketball Free food Games and activities A chance to meet your local law enforcement officers Events like these help strengthen relationships, build trust, and create positive connections between law enforcement and the communities we proudly serve. Members of the media are welcome and encouraged to attend. This is a great opportunity to capture positive interactions between law enforcement and the community while highlighting the importance of community engagement. We hope to see you and your family there!

Interested in becoming a trooper? The Michigan State Police is hosting a hiring event on August 20 at the Gaylord Middle School from 9:00 to 2:00 p.m. To register, visit forms.office.com/g/smyLnamdNe. Questions? Contact Sgt. Kellie Gillam-Shaffer at Gillamshafferk@michigan.gov or Tpr. Steve Lidak at Lidaks@michigan.gov

A special shoutout to the dedicated troopers from the Metro South Post who recently assisted with a dignified escort honoring the life and service of Firefighter Emily Barker. After Emily’s remains arrived at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, our troopers proudly escorted her family and her remains to Clinton Township, ensuring she was brought home with the honor, dignity, and respect she deserved. We would like to recognize the members who participated in this escort: • Sgt. Reeber (Lead) • Trooper J. Coleman • Trooper W. Coleman • Trooper Brown • Trooper Cosenza Thank you to these troopers for representing the Michigan State Police with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment. We were honored to stand alongside our public safety partners in supporting Firefighter Barker’s family during this difficult time. Our thoughts remain with Firefighter Barker’s family, friends, and the entire fire service community.

Thank you @upnorthlive for documenting this special day. Lt. de Castro from @MichEMHS will soon retire with over 31 years of service.

Happy Monday! Reminder, today troopers, statewide will be out enforcing the "Move Over" law. We will also be targeting unsafe driving, the hands-free law, as well as seat belt use. Let's all do our part to keep our first responders and road workers safe.

A special day for the Michigan State Police, Lt. Michael de Castro from @MichEMHS is out on his final patrol shift before retiring this September, teamed up with his son, Trooper Merrek de Castro. Proud moment for the de Castro family. Stay safe out there!