Ryan McInerney, Excessive Force, Michigan 2014
A former Hamtramck police officer, Ryan McInerney, 44, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a civil rights charge related to the excessive use of force against a civilian.
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, the incident occurred on June 22, 2014, when McInerney was on duty with the Hamtramck Police Department (HPD). McInerney struck the victim, identified as D.M., multiple times in the face with his service pistol through the open window of D.M.'s car.
The victim suffered facial bone fractures and lacerations that required stitches, among other injuries. McInerney also admitted to falsifying a use-of-force report to cover up the incident and prevent any future investigation.
“The FBI works to hold accountable law enforcement who abuse their power and violate the civil rights of individuals,” said Timothy Waters, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan.
McInerney also admitted to striking another civilian, J.M., without justification and breaking J.M.'s teeth during a separate arrest.
“Most police officers serve honorably and fulfill their duty to protect Michigan citizens, but this is a rare example of an officer who fell short of their obligation,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew Schneider.
McInerney is scheduled to be sentenced on April 19, 2021, and faces a maximum sentence of 36 months in prison if the court accepts the plea agreement.
The case is being investigated by the FBI and will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Frances Carlson and Litigation Attorney Risa Berkower of the Civil Rights Division.
Defendant: Ryan McInerney
Criminal Charges: Excessive Use of Force, Civil Rights Violation
City, State: Hamtramck, Michigan
Date: June 22, 2014
Sentence: Up to 36 months in prison
Key Facts
- State: Michigan
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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