Detroit Officer Appears in Boxers on Zoom; Investigation

Detroit Police Officer Matthew Jackson appeared via Zoom in Michigan’s 36th District Court wearing his uniform shirt but no trousers, showing boxer briefs, during a hearing on reckless driving and public intoxication charges. Judge Sean Perkins asked, “You got some pants on, officer?” Jackson acknowledged he was not wearing pants, angled his camera to show only his upper body, and the judge proceeded with the hearing without holding him in contempt. Defense attorney TaTaNisha Reed and 36th District Court Chief Judge William McConico said they were surprised and described the conduct as out of character. The Detroit Police Department opened an internal investigation, apologized to the court and staff, and said it would reinforce proper courtroom attire and virtual-hearing etiquette for officers. Video of the exchange went viral online and drew public ridicule.