Overview
- A jury found former Melvindale Lt. Matthew Furman guilty of misconduct in office, a five-year felony, and of misdemeanor assault and battery for a July 2024 traffic stop.
- A judge sentenced Furman to six months in jail and three years of probation for the July case, and separately imposed a one-year probation term after he pleaded no contest to a 2021 assault charge.
- The same jury acquitted Furman in an earlier April/May 2024 traffic-stop tasing involving Alica Cook.
- Testimony and video presented at trial showed Furman repeatedly using a Taser to 'drive-stun' Drakkar Williams after stopping him for driving around barricades and discovering a suspended license and uninsured vehicle.
- Local investigative reporting first brought the incidents to light, the police chief fired Furman after charges were filed, and city officials say the verdict may help restore public trust and prompt tighter use-of-force standards.