Detroit, Michigan, November 30, 2025
Three high-ranking officials in the Detroit Fire Department, including Lieutenant James Hill-Harris, are facing disciplinary action due to allegations of payroll fraud. An investigation revealed that Hill-Harris submitted fraudulent time records claiming over 150 hours of work not performed. Supervisors Chief Dennis Richardson and Captain Rance Dixon are also being held accountable for oversight failures. In response to these incidents, the Fire Commissioner has initiated new payroll safeguards to enhance accountability and prevent future fraud.
Detroit Fire Department Officials Face Disciplinary Action Over Alleged Payroll Fraud
Detroit, Michigan – Three high-ranking officials within the Detroit Fire Department are under scrutiny following an investigation into alleged payroll fraud. The city’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) has recommended disciplinary measures for Lieutenant James Hill-Harris, Chief Dennis Richardson, and Captain Rance Dixon.
Details of the Investigation
The OIG’s investigation revealed that Lieutenant Hill-Harris submitted fraudulent time records, overstating more than 150 hours of work. Analysis of key card data, cellphone records, and daily activity logs indicated that Hill-Harris was not present in Detroit during the hours he claimed to have worked. Supervisors Richardson and Dixon were cited for failing to properly oversee timekeeping and time card submissions, contributing to the lack of accountability. The OIG’s report recommends disciplinary action for all three officials involved.
Background Context
In July 2025, an internal audit by the Detroit Fire Department identified discrepancies in Hill-Harris’s reported work hours, leading to a demotion. The OIG’s subsequent investigation uncovered a consistent pattern of time fraud dating back to 2018. In response to these findings, Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms has implemented new payroll safeguards, including biweekly audits and mandatory physical clock-in procedures, to prevent future incidents of payroll fraud.
Related Incidents
This case is part of a series of payroll fraud investigations within the Detroit Fire Department. In 2021, Verdine Day, the former Treasurer of the Detroit Fire Department Union, was sentenced to federal prison for embezzling over $200,000 in union funds. Additionally, in 2025, former fire inspector Steve Perry resigned amid allegations of payroll fraud, with investigations revealing discrepancies in his reported work hours.
Implications for the Detroit Fire Department
The ongoing investigations and resulting disciplinary actions underscore the need for enhanced oversight and accountability within the Detroit Fire Department. The department is committed to addressing these issues and restoring public trust through comprehensive reforms and stricter adherence to ethical standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What were the allegations against Lieutenant James Hill-Harris?
Lieutenant Hill-Harris was accused of submitting fraudulent time records, overstating more than 150 hours of work. Investigations revealed discrepancies between his reported work hours and key card data, cellphone records, and daily activity logs, indicating he was not present in Detroit during the claimed hours.
What disciplinary actions have been recommended?
The Office of Inspector General has recommended disciplinary measures for Lieutenant Hill-Harris, Chief Dennis Richardson, and Captain Rance Dixon. The specific actions are under review by the Detroit Fire Department.
What steps is the Detroit Fire Department taking to prevent future payroll fraud?
In response to these incidents, Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms has implemented new payroll safeguards, including biweekly audits and mandatory physical clock-in procedures, to enhance oversight and prevent future payroll fraud.
Have there been other instances of payroll fraud within the Detroit Fire Department?
Yes, in 2021, Verdine Day, the former Treasurer of the Detroit Fire Department Union, was sentenced to federal prison for embezzling over $200,000 in union funds. Additionally, in 2025, former fire inspector Steve Perry resigned amid allegations of payroll fraud, with investigations revealing discrepancies in his reported work hours.
Key Features of the Detroit Fire Department Payroll Fraud Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Allegations | Lieutenant James Hill-Harris submitted fraudulent time records, overstating over 150 hours of work. |
| Supervisory Oversight | Chief Dennis Richardson and Captain Rance Dixon failed to properly oversee timekeeping and time card submissions. |
| Investigation Findings | Discrepancies between reported work hours and key card data, cellphone records, and daily activity logs indicated fraudulent activity. |
| Recommended Disciplinary Actions | Disciplinary measures for Lieutenant Hill-Harris, Chief Richardson, and Captain Dixon are under review by the Detroit Fire Department. |
| Preventive Measures | Implementation of biweekly audits and mandatory physical clock-in procedures to enhance oversight and prevent future payroll fraud. |
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