During an exam this afternoon for two suspects who are charged with homicide in a fatal shooting at Eastland Mall in 2010, a large disturbance broke out inside the courtroom of District 32A in front of Judge Roger J.LaRose. Approximately 80 people supporting the victim’s family as well as those supporting the suspects began a verbal disturbance that spilled out into the lobby of the police station, where it turned into a physical confrontation. Harper Woods police officers had additional staff on duty and had implemented enhanced security procedures prior to the disturbance taking place. They were able to contain the majority of the people involved in the disturbance inside the courtroom. Mutual Aid was requested and HWPD officers were assisted by several Grosse Pointe Public Safety Departments. The arriving officers assisted Harper Woods officers in restoring order and 5 arrests were made.
Judge LaRose ordered the courtroom cleared and the exam is continuing. There were two minor injuries reported, both received treatment from the Harper Woods Fire Department. No police officers were injured.
Jim Burke
Chief of Police
