Watch: Ex-Ferndale Cop Charged in Violent Arrest

Ferndale, MI — A former Ferndale police officer whose squad car video showed the violent arrest of an apparently compliant larceny suspect has been charged with assault and battery, his ex-boss said.

The video showed veteran police officer Jason White, 37, striking Khalil Williams, a 17-year-old larceny suspect from Detroit, several times, Ferndale Police Chief Timothy Collins said in a statement.

Collins said he was “deeply troubled” by what he saw on the video of Williams’ April 18 request. Williams had accused White of using excessive force, which Collins said the video confirmed.

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“There are no excuses to be made,” Collins said in the statement. “The arresting officer involved in this incident did indeed use excessive (force).”

White was immediately placed on administrative leave and the matter was referred to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for investigation, Collins said. The former officer resigned from his position a week after the investigation of his conduct began.

If convicted, White could be sentenced to up to 93 days in jail.

In the statement, Collins also said:

“Allow me to say first and foremost that the actions of this single officer are not in any way indicative or reflective of the Ferndale Police Department’s principles, values, or operations. Community is at the heart of all that we do; we strive every day to promote a culture in which our officers are viewed as guardians and protectors. I can speak for the entire department when I say that I am shocked and disappointed by what occurred during this arrest. Every individual, regardless of his or her alleged actions, is entitled to safety and respect; I apologize that this young man did not receive this.
“While one individual displayed inappropriate and unacceptable behavior, the rest of our department — acting in away that reflects our true values and the training our team receives — worked rapidly to bring the issue to light and ensure that appropriate action was taken. …
“I pledge that my department and I will do our very best to see that a violation like this never occurs again. We demand the best from every member of our team, and we will continue to provide the information and training necessary to ensure that all members are equipped to act as responsible stewards of the law. …"