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Press Release - April 11, 2018 - Officer Charged With Firearms Possession While Under the Influence
Detroit Police Officer Charged with Possession of Firearms While Under the Influence
Detroit Police Officer Jerold Blanding was placed on Restricted Duty/No Gun Status as a result of the investigation into the February 13, 2017 fatal shooting of Raynard Burton, 19, of Detroit. On December 20, 2017, the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office determined that no charges would issue because Officer Blanding acted in lawful self defense.
After the warrant denial, Officer Blanding remained on restricted duty and was not allowed to carry a firearm. On January 14, 2018, at approximately 2:34 p.m., DPD patrol officers responded to an injury car accident in the 12900 block of Puritan when they encountered Blanding, who was off-duty at the time. Officer Blanding knew the victim, but was not involved in the accident. When Officer Blanding stood near the accident victim, the officers tried to speak with him. It is alleged that his speech was slurred and the odor of alcohol was detected. It is further alleged that he had three handguns in his possession, and he resisted and obstructed the police as they were attempting to render aid to the accident victim.
Today Blanding has been charged with three counts of Possession of Firearm While Under the Influence, eight counts of Resisting and Obstructing the Police, and eight counts of Felony Firearm.* He was arraigned this afternoon in 36th District Court and received a $50,000 personal bond. His probable cause conference is scheduled for April 18, 2018 at 8:30 a.m. and his preliminary examination is scheduled for April 23, 2018 at 9:00 a.m.
*The charges are allegations and defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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