BENTON HARBOR, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — At the request of Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety, the Michigan State Police (MSP) has expanded its resources in Benton Harbor.
Six troopers and one sergeant have been assigned through September 18, in addition to troopers currently assigned to the Secure Cities Partnership (SCP).
Benton Harbor is part of Michigan’s SCP, which is an initiative developed by the MSP to address crime through a comprehensive system of “smart justice” that recognizes the connection between enforcement and community engagement.
During the first week of additional resources, four handguns were seized during traffic stops in which occupants had outstanding warrants and were taken into custody.
Troopers also assisted the Benton Township Police Department with investigating an illegal gambling operation which resulted in two handguns, crack cocaine and $1,700 in cash being seized. Four suspects were arrested.
In addition, arrests were made for the following:
- One – possession of cocaine
- One – felon in possession of a firearm
- Two – resisting or obstructing an officer
- Four – carrying a concealed weapon
- Seven – absconding/violating parole or probation as part of Operation Night Hawk, a Michigan Department of Corrections initiative
- Eight – misdemeanor warrants
- 10 – felony warrants, including one charged with assault with intent to commit great bodily harm less than murder
Officials add that further efforts are made in the program to engage with community members through positive encounters, which they say is crucial for making a better impact on the area.
