Watch CBS News

Hamtramck Police Chief In The Dark About Suspension, Internal Investigation

HAMTRAMCK (WWJ) - Hamtramck's police chief is the apparent target of an internal investigation, but he has no idea what it could be about.

Chief Max Garbarino tried to ask the City Council Monday night why he's being suspended with pay, but he walked away with few answers.

"One person might know and that's the Hamtramck City Manager," said WWJ Legal Analyst Charlie Langton, "but she's not really talking."

City Manager Karina Powell, who has been in office for just over 60 days, alone made the decision to force Garbarino, on the job since 2012, to turn in his badge and be placed on paid suspension.

"The only explanation is that the city manager is conducting an internal investigation involving a personnel matter and involving the chief's computer," said Langton.

Councilmembers questioned Powell and City Attorney Travis Mihelick about the investigation, but neither released information about the probe. Mihelick reminded the council that Powell was within her legal right to place Garbarino on paid leave.

The Hamtramck Police Department said Lieutenant Ann Moise has been put in charge in Garbarino's absence.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.