LANSING, Mich. — Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt again called on embattled Michigan State Police Director Col. James Grady to step down after the department confirmed Thursday that discredited Deputy Director Lt. Col. Aimee Brimacombe is planning to retire.
“While I welcome news of Lt. Col. Brimacombe’s expected retirement, she should have stepped away months ago,” said Nesbitt, R-Porter Township. “It’s appalling that Gov. Whitmer has allowed the department’s failed leaders to remain in their positions, eroding accountability and trust in one of Michigan’s most respected institutions. I encourage Director Grady to follow his lieutenant out the door.”
In October, Nesbitt led a group of Senate Republicans urging Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to request the immediate resignation of Grady and Brimacombe or relieve them of their duties.
He also demanded action from the governor after more than 98% of MSP troopers voted in June to say they had no confidence in Grady and Brimacombe’s direction.
The MSP has been marred by turmoil fueled by questionable promotions and a wave of departures that have included lawsuits brought by a retired MSP inspector and chief diversity officer alleging gross patterns of workplace harassment, as well as two sergeants alleging rigged promotions continue at the Flint post.
Other scandals have included reports of exam rigging in 2023, the director’s controversial response to a fatal chase in 2024 and Brimacombe’s “insubordinate” disciplinary record that includes misuse of her state vehicle.