Sterling Heights police launch internal investigation into chaotic arrest

Police in Sterling Heights are investigating some of their own after the arrest of a man accused of domestic violence.

The department shared police bodycam footage of when they caught up with Garry Young after a high-speed chase on Feb. 25. The footage shows an officer punching Young in the head repeatedly before a K-9 is brought in. Police said Young kicked an officer in the face. An officer responded with punches and a kick to Young’s head.

Police said Young had a blood alcohol level that was twice the legal limit. He reportedly suffered minor injuries and was given medical attention after the arrest.

The Sterling Heights Police Department said it opened an internal investigation into the use of force and called for an independent review of the incident by the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office. The department released footage of the incident “in the spirit of transparency.”

“We want to be as transparent as possible during this entire process,” said Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski. “Not only what the actions of the suspect, but the actions of our officers. Everyone has to be accountable, everybody. And that accountability starts with this independent investigation.”

Arnold Reed, an attorney representing Young, said what happened to him was disgusting and “no different than a gang-style beating of an unarmed man by numerous people who happened to be wearing badges.”

Reed said he will be conducting his own investigation into the incident.

“This is a classic case of extreme and outrageous conduct that could have taken a life. No matter what my client is accused of, what

You see on this tape is completely unjustifiable,” Reed said in a press release. “Animals are treated better.”

Two Sterling Heights officers have been placed on paid administrative leave while the department conducts its investigation.

Young was charged with five felonies and three misdemeanors. He is currently out on bond.