Ex-State Cop Convicted In Property Embezzlement Scheme

LANSING (WWJ) - A former Michigan State police lieutenant has pleaded no contest for his role as the "ringleader" in a racketeering scheme.

Investigators say 50-year old Luke Davis of Monroe worked with two others to embezzle property and money seized from suspects from March 2006 to December 2008.

Among the items prosecutors said were taken for personal use or sold for personal profit were steroids, pain pills, jewelry, designer purses, mobile phones, TVs, cars and a golf cart.

Attorney General Bill Schuette said this felony conviction will result in the permanent revocation of Davis' Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) certification -- ending his career in law enforcement.

"Law enforcement officials who abuse their position for personal gain dangerously undermine public safety for everyone," said Schuette, in a statement.  "No matter your title, if you break the law, there are consequences, and we will hold corrupt officials accountable."

Added Col. Kriste Kibbey Etue, director of the MSP, "Now that all three men will be held responsible for their criminal behavior, we can finally close the chapter on this lengthy investigation."

Former Michigan State Police Lt. Emmanuel Riopelle, 44, of Grosse Ile;  and Monroe County resident Lawrence Dusseau, 44, were also charged in February 2011 for their roles in the scheme.  Dusseau pleaded guilty to tax charges. Riopelle pleaded no contest last week.

All three await sentencing this summer.