Warren Evans

Warren Evans, who served as Wayne County Sheriff and Detroit Police Chief before becoming Wayne County Executive, faced several controversies during his career in public service.

Detroit Police Chief Tenure and Resignation (2009-2010) In July 2010, Evans resigned as Detroit Police Chief after approximately one year in the position. His resignation came amid multiple controversies:

The most prominent issue involved his participation in a promotional video for a proposed reality TV show called "The Chief." The video showed Evans carrying weapons and promoting an aggressive law enforcement style. Then-Mayor Dave Bing cited this video as inappropriate and a factor in requesting Evans' resignation.

Additionally, Evans faced scrutiny over his romantic relationship with Lieutenant Monique Patterson, a subordinate officer in the department. This relationship raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest and professional conduct.

Prior Controversies As Wayne County Sheriff before his Detroit Police Chief role, Evans faced criticism over departmental spending and management practices. Evans generated controversy when he proposed reviving elements of the "STRESS" (Stop the Robberies, Enjoy Safe Streets) program, which had been controversial in Detroit's history during the 1970s. This proposal faced significant community pushback due to historical concerns about police tactics and community relations.

The Reality Show Controversy

The most significant controversy of Evans' tenure involved his participation in a pilot video for a proposed reality TV show called "The Chief." The video showed Evans:

Carrying military-style weapons

Conducting raids

Making dramatic statements about fighting crime

Portraying an aggressive, TV-style approach to policing

The video's tone and content were criticized as inappropriate for a sitting police chief and potentially compromising to police operations. When the video became public, it created significant political backlash.

Personnel Issues

Evans faced scrutiny over his relationship with Lieutenant Monique Patterson, who worked in the department. The relationship raised concerns about:

Chain of command issues

Professional conduct standards

Potential conflicts of interest in departmental decisions

The relationship became public knowledge and added to the growing controversies surrounding his leadership.