Michigan State Police: Detroit online ticket program violates department policy

Perry A. Farrell | Detroit Free Press

The 36th District Court on Wednesday announced a new Online Ticket Resolution Pilot Program for eligible traffic civil infractions issued by Michigan State Police, but forgot to inform anybody at MSP about the program.

According to Chief Judge Nancy M. Blount in the press release, individuals would have the option to request consideration for a plea offer to a lesser or no-point violation by answering a few simple questions. A magistrate would review the individual’s eligibility and driving record, applying the same criteria as an in-person court appearance, and provide a response within 72 hours. The party would then have the opportunity to accept or reject the offer.

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Lt. Michael A. Shaw, Michigan State Police Special Enforcement Section Commander, Public Information Officer, said that won’t happen.

"We have never heard of this program and would not be a part of it as it violates departmental policy and our collective bargaining agreements with our troopers and sergeants," Shaw said Wednesday night. "We are currently trying to contact the court, but have not been able to. It is our belief that everyone deserves their day in court and that includes the officer, deputy or trooper who issued the citation. Offering a plea for only fines and not points denies every party their day in court."

The court handles about 12,000 infractions per year, which 4,000 are civil.

The new program was hailed as a quick efficient way to resolve traffic civil infractions online rather than appearing in person for a court hearing.

Apparently the two sides have some talking to do Thursday morning.