Detroit Lions

Investigation launched by Detroit Police after Lions’ Jameson Williams nearly arrested for gun possession.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams is currently in the news, not only for his recent two-game suspension due to a breach of the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances policy but also because of a recent incident with Detroit police.

As reported by 7 News Detroit, on October 8, Williams was nearly taken into custody when police discovered two guns in the vehicle he and his brother were traveling in.

The incident took place around midnight when Detroit police pulled over Williams’ brother near Connor and Jefferson Avenue. Williams’ brother informed officers that there were two firearms in the car: one registered to him in the back seat, and another, registered to Williams, located under his seat.

Since Williams doesn’t hold a concealed pistol license (CPL), it was illegal for him to have the firearm under his seat.

When officers indicated he might be arrested, Williams reportedly mentioned, “I play for the Lions, bro. I’m Jameson Williams.”

Williams later explained he had the weapon for protection, saying, “I got the gun for protection.

Do you guys know where I live at? Detroit!” However, he was still handcuffed and placed in the back of the police car, with officers initially planning to take him to jail.

Police Supervisor Intervenes The situation took an unexpected turn when a police supervisor, familiar with Williams, arrived on the scene.

Recognizing him as a Lions player and reportedly having a Lions logo as his phone wallpaper, the sergeant made several calls to confirm whether Williams needed to be formally detained or if his brother’s CPL might apply to both guns.

In a moment captured on body camera, the sergeant told the responding officers, “I’m so mad at you two.” According to Commander Michael McGinnis, this comment was made “in a jovial way” and wasn’t meant as serious criticism.

Following his inquiries with several higher-ranking officials, the sergeant initially appeared ready to take Williams into custody, saying, “Be advised, he’s coming in.

You might want to make special accommodations.” But soon after, a lieutenant called, instructing the sergeant to release Williams.

“Okay. Beautiful. I’m good to let him go?” he asked, before jokingly saying, “You’re a (expletive) hero. Thank you so much.” Williams was ultimately released, his firearm returned, and no formal report filed.

DPD Begins Internal Review The decision to release Williams without charges prompted an internal review by the Detroit Police Department.

Commander McGinnis expressed concerns over the handling of the case.

“I want to know if the fact that this individual was a Detroit Lions player, did that play a factor in the decision making?” He added that Detroit Police Chief James White was “very unhappy about the totality of the circumstances here” and “pissed off.”

The review followed questions from 7 News Detroit, who initially reported the incident without knowledge of the second gun under Williams’ seat. Detroit police later clarified the situation and released parts of the body camera footage to correct the details.

Statements from Legal Counsel and the Lions Following the incident, Williams’ attorney, Todd Flood, released a statement.

“On October 8, my clients were pulled over for an alleged traffic violation. During the stop, my clients were both cooperative and respectful with the officers.

Both pistols found were properly registered, and the driver in the vehicle had the correct credentials to carry them.

We have fully cooperated with law enforcement and will continue to do so.”

The Detroit Lions also issued a statement, saying that Williams had informed them about the traffic stop soon after it happened.

“We discussed the incident with him and have kept the league informed of what we know,” the Lions said.

“We understand he was released without incident or citation. It is now our understanding that the Detroit Police Department is revisiting the matter.

Jameson has hired an attorney, and we will not be commenting further out of respect for the legal process.”

Currently, the Detroit Police Department has submitted a warrant request to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, which is now evaluating the case to decide whether charges will be filed.

 

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