Detroit, January 11, 2026

Recent investigations reveal that two Detroit Department of Transportation employees, Andre Reece and Dayna Ruff, have caused major service disruptions due to their undisclosed romantic relationship. This transgression not only violated workplace policies but also raised concerns regarding supervisory oversight and the adequacy of disciplinary measures. As Detroit aims for better public service delivery, this incident underlines the urgent need for stricter enforcement of city regulations governing employee interactions.

Detroit, Michigan

DDOT Employees’ Relationship Causes Major Service Disruptions

The recent investigation into the actions of two employees from the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) has shed light on the complexities and challenges within city operations. The relationship between Senior Transportation Service Inspector Andre Reece and Transportation Equipment Operator Dayna Ruff not only highlights personal choices but also raises broader questions about workplace policies and their enforcement. Amidst Detroit’s ongoing efforts to enhance public services and economic opportunities, this incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of integrity and transparency in public service roles.

The situation emphasizes the significance of maintaining robust systems of oversight within municipal departments to ensure they operate efficiently and meet the community’s needs without interruption. As Detroit continues its journey toward revitalization, the local government must prioritize clarity in policies that govern employee interactions, which ultimately can impact public trust and service delivery.

Key Findings from the Investigation

• Undisclosed Relationship: Reece and Ruff failed to disclose their romantic relationship, in violation of City of Detroit Executive Order 2012-1, which mandates disclosure of such relationships between city employees to prevent conflicts of interest.
• Service Disruptions: Their actions led to significant service interruptions, including a 115-minute disruption caused by a false mechanical defect report on May 6, 2025, and further disturbances resulting from their on-duty interactions on May 20, 2025.
• Inadequate Discipline: The disciplinary measures taken against the involved employees—minor suspensions—were criticized as inadequate given the severity of their violations.
• Supervisory Oversight: Complaints regarding the couple’s conduct were not appropriately escalated by DDOT leadership, potentially due to their personal relationships within the department.

Background Context

The City of Detroit enforces Executive Order 2012-1 to mitigate conflicts of interest among employees. The investigation into Reece and Ruff’s conduct serves as an important case study regarding the necessity of robust enforcement of these guidelines to ensure the integrity of public services. Adhering to these policies not only protects public trust but also supports the professional standards expected of city employees.

Implications for DDOT and City Policies

This incident underscores a crucial need for stricter enforcement of policies surrounding workplace relationships. The public’s reliance on DDOT for transport underscores the importance of transparency and accountability within the department. These events shine a light on the critical need for strong supervisory measures, ensuring employees are held accountable to foster an environment where public service is prioritized and delivered efficiently.

Conclusion

The actions taken by Reece and Ruff, paired with the insufficient response from DDOT leadership, have raised significant concerns regarding the department’s commitment to ethical practices and reliable public service. As Detroit strives for economic growth and community development, it becomes imperative that city departments maintain rigorous standards and are equipped with the correct oversight mechanisms. Local residents and stakeholders are encouraged to remain engaged in discussions about the importance of ethical governance and support initiatives that drive transparency and accountability within city services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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        "text": "They violated City of Detroit Executive Order 2012-1, which requires employees to disclose romantic relationships with colleagues to prevent conflicts of interest."
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Key Features of the Incident

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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER

DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.