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From Fox 2 video.
The number two Warren police official, Deputy Commissdioner Matt Nichols, is on administrative leave pending an investigation into allegations he brutalized a shoplifting suspect.
Nichols, second-in-command for nearly 18 months, was suspended with pay last week, according to the Macomb Daily. Commissioner Bill Dwyer tells reporter Norb Franz:
Nichols was present as three suspects were taken into custody July 18 in the parking lot of the Menard’s store on Van Dyke, south of 14 Mile Road. Later that day or the following morning, several officers reported to a supervisor that Nichols allegedly used excessive force against one of the suspected thieves, Dwyer said.
“I don’t tolerate excessive force by any officer. If the allegations are true, I’m disappointed that a high-ranking officer – a deputy chief -- would do that. I’m not saying he did it,” says Dwyer, who didn't describe what Nichols allegedly did.
The suspect in the case complained of an injury and was treated at a hospital before being returned to the police lockup.
Nichols and the police witnesses spoke to internal affairs detectives as part of the investigation.
