Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield has reiterated her confidence in Police Chief Todd Bettison before telling a reporter to “calm down” when questioned about photographs at the centre of an inspector general’s investigation.
Sheffield declined to comment further when asked a follow-up question about the images, which show her with former partner Marvin Walker. The photographs were shared on social media by activist Jahdante Smith.
The Detroit Office of Inspector General opened an investigation into Bettison after he contacted Smith and asked him to remove the posts. Bettison has acknowledged making the request but said he acted personally and was not instructed by the mayor.
Smith later had his phone seized by Detroit police during an investigation into an unrelated complaint. He has questioned whether the seizure was connected to his refusal to remove the images, while Bettison has denied influencing the case and said the criminal investigation began before his call with Smith on August 5.
Detroit police have since referred investigations involving Smith and Walker to another law enforcement agency. Sheffield has denied using her office to prompt action against either man and has rejected allegations concerning city money or contracts involving Walker.
