News Summary
Steve Perry, a former fire inspector in Detroit, has been suspended while under investigation for payroll fraud. He allegedly collected payments for overtime shifts he did not work. An audit revealed he only worked 54 out of 246 reviewed days, raising questions about $138,662 received for overtime. Despite resigning from the fire department, Perry has not faced formal charges. His presence at the court on the day of his suspension raised alarms, highlighting concerns about hiring practices for individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Detroit – Steve Perry, a former fire inspector in Detroit, has been suspended amid an investigation into payroll fraud following his resignation over similar allegations. Perry, who previously served as a police officer, is currently the subject of scrutiny for collecting payments for overtime shifts that he ostensibly did not work.
On Wednesday morning, Chief Judge William McConico confirmed Perry’s suspension from his post at the 36th District Court in Detroit. This action comes as the Detroit Police Department (DPD) continues its investigation into the fraud allegations. Perry’s suspension is a direct result of findings that suggest he was paid for shifts where he was absent.
The audit conducted by the Detroit Fire Department has raised significant questions regarding the validity of Perry’s work hours. Out of a total of 246 days reviewed, Perry was found to have only completed work on 54 days, leading to suspicions about the approximately $138,662 he received for alleged overtime work. Although he resigned from the fire department on April 3, he has not yet faced formal criminal charges related to these recent allegations.
Adding to the situation, Perry was seen working at the court on the same day of his suspension, a fact that alarmed Chief Judge McConico. Reports surfaced regarding Perry’s presence in the courtroom, prompting further inquiries into his employment following his problematic history. Perry’s case has sparked discussions around the court’s hiring practices, particularly concerning individuals with previous criminal backgrounds.
Notably, this is not Perry’s first encounter with law enforcement. In 2009, he was charged with stealing reward money related to auto theft tips while still serving with the Detroit Police Department. He pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor in 2010 and subsequently served 32 days in jail. Despite this past, Perry was hired by the court in 2018, leading to questions about the vetting procedures that failed to identify his criminal background adequately.
Detroit Fire Commissioner Chuck Simms expressed confusion regarding the lack of awareness about Perry’s criminal history within the fire department. This incident has raised concerns among oversight board members about the effectiveness of the hiring process, especially concerning individuals with prior offenses.
Meanwhile, the DPD is preparing to submit a warrant to the Wayne County prosecutor based on the findings from the ongoing investigation. Despite the controversy surrounding his recent actions, Perry remains eligible for a city pension, as he has not yet been convicted of any charges stemming from the latest inquiries into his conduct.
Further complications surround Perry’s case due to his previous recognition for bravery; in November 2023, he was applauded for rescuing a driver from a burning vehicle. This commendation stands in stark contrast to the allegations now facing him, underscoring the complexities of his character and professional history.
The unfolding situation highlights significant concerns regarding fraud within public service roles, the need for rigorous oversight in hiring practices, particularly for those with a checkered past, and the imperative for ongoing accountability in public service positions. As investigations continue, stakeholders await further developments in this troubling case.
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Additional Resources
- WXYZ: Ex-Fire Marshal Cop Accused of Theft
- Wikipedia: Fire Department
- Fox 2 Detroit: Detroit Man Spent Decade in Prison
- Google Search: Detroit Public Service Fraud
- Bridge Detroit: Disorganized Detroit Bridgerton Ball
- Google Scholar: Fraud in Public Service
- Live Now Fox: Trump Fires Inspectors General
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Service Fraud
- ABC News: Poll Watchers and Deterrence
- Google News: Detroit Court Officer Theft
