2 Sterling Heights police officers are on paid leave after an investigation into an arrest of an alleged drunk domestic violence suspect who led police on a chase.
On Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024, at approximately 4:45 a.m., Sterling Heights police officers apprehended a suspect after a call reporting domestic violence that led to a chase. Police alleged the suspect beat his girlfriend and choked her. The pursuit spanned 13 miles through multiple jurisdictions, with speeds up to 90 mph. During the pursuit, Garry Young is accused of attempting to run over an officer. The suspect ran multiple red lights and swerved into oncoming traffic.
“After exiting his vehicle from the passenger side, the suspect was not compliant with commands and resisted attempts to be placed under arrest. During the suspect’s arrest, officers utilized physical force, tasers, and a K9. The suspect obtained minor injuries during the arrest,” Sterling Heights police said.
“Toxicology reports released indicated the suspect’s blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit. The suspect has been charged with the following eight felonies. The incident involved the use of force to apprehend the suspect, so as standard protocol dictates, we called for an immediate, independent review of the incident by the Macomb County Sheriff’s Department. In addition, an internal investigation is being conducted,” police said.
As this incident remains under review, two Sterling Heights officers have been placed on leave.
Garry and his family have retained an attorney.
“Went through was no different than a gang-style beating of an unarmed man by numerous people who happened to be wearing badges. This is disgusting and is not the way law enforcement should conduct themselves. The truth of the matter is, my client was on the ground defenseless,” the man’s attorneys said in a news release. “No matter what my client is accused of, what you see on this tape is completely unjustifiable. Animals are treated better.”
