Hamtramck residents press for fair, transparent investigation after police chief placed on leave; council declines immediate action

Hamtramck — Residents, union representatives and elected officials filled a special city council meeting May 23 to press for a transparent investigation after Police Chief Jamil Altahiri was placed on paid administrative leave amid multiple allegations and media reports.

Mayor (unnamed) opened the meeting and told the room, “we're not here to punish anyone today. We just want to make sure that the investigation is fair and transparent.” The comment framed the session, which included dozens of public commenters and emails read into the record supporting both Chief Altahiri and City Manager Maxwell Garbarino.

Why it matters: The accusations have drawn FBI and county-level attention, prompted a spate of public emails and in-person testimony, and raised questions among residents about whether the city should rely on federal investigators, the Michigan State Police or a privately contracted investigative firm. Speakers warned that any hasty personnel action could invite costly litigation or further damage to the city’s reputation.

Public comment and union statements

Speakers representing the Hamtramck police unions — read into the record by a city clerk — asked the public to “reserve their personal opinion until the completion of the investigation,” and said they supported both…