UPDATES:

• Friend says Ottawa Deputy Ryan Huizenga also deserves support during investigation of shooting of GVSU student Derek Copp

• Shooting of Grand Valley student Derek Copp could be career-ender for Ottawa sheriff's Deputy Ryan Huizenga, who faces criminal charge in case

5:55 p.m. UPDATE

GEORGETOWN TOWNSHIP -- An Ottawa County sheriff's deputy faces a charge of careless discharge of a weapon causing injury or death in the March 11 shooting of Grand Valley State University student Derek Copp.

Deputy Ryan Huizenga has been placed on unpaid administrative leave after he was charged today by the Kalamazoo County prosecutor, which authorized the high misdemeanor charges following an investigation by the Michigan State Police, according to Ottawa County Undersheriff Greg Steigenga.Kalamazoo County Prosecutor Jeffrey Fink said he expects Huizenga to be arraigned in Hudsonville District Court next week.

The charge has a maximum penalty of two years behind bars and while it is a misdemeanor, Huizenga will be able to have a probable cause hearing, most likely in Hudsonville District Court. The case then could go to Ottawa County Circuit Court in Grand Haven if there is a trial, according to Fink.

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When asked if Huizenga had cooperated with the investigation, Fink said Huizenga did talk to an investigator.

Copp was shot at his off-campus apartment in Georgetown Township when police entered through a rear sliding door on a drug search warrant, and the unarmed Copp was shot once in the chest. He has been in and out of the hospital, recovering from his injuries.

The state police investigation alleged that officers were acting on a legitimate warrant regarding illegal drug sales. Copp has not been charged with any crime.

Copp's father, George Copp, did not want to discuss the charges, and referred a reporter to his attorney. Of his son's condition, he said: "He certainly could be better."

Attorney Frederick Dilley, representing Grand Valley State University student Derek Copp, reacted this afternoon to charges filed against an Ottawa County sheriff's Deputy Ryan Huizenga.

"We are pleased with the very rapid and thorough investigation and review by the Michigan State Police and Prosecutor's Office. This is a tragedy for all involved, and Derek looks forward to getting life back to normal as soon as possible."

Fink said there is no proof there was any intent to harm Copp on the officer's part, but the state police investigation showed the gun was discharged in a reckless, negligent or careless manner.

Fink said the officers were knocking at the slider when Copp came to the door and moved a curtain. It appears a light from someone outside may have caused Copp to raise his arm, after which the shot was fired.

"Officers go through extensive training with their weapons," said Fink, adding a charge like this against an officer is unusual.

Fink expects his office will handle the case as it moves through Ottawa County courts.

Huizenga, a 12-year police veteran, was working with the West Michigan Enforcement Team when the shooting occurred.

Matt VanLiere, president of Ottawa County Deputy Sheriff's Association, said: "I think we need an opportunity to digest what has happened" with the charges being filed.

E-mail the author of this story: localnews@grpress.com