State Rep. Mike Mueller today released the following statement after Michigan State Police Lt. Col. Aimee Brimacombe announced her pending retirement following an overwhelming vote of no confidence from Michigan State Police Troopers:

“I wish Lt. Col. Brimacombe all the best as she transitions into the next chapter of her life outside of state government, and I hope retirement brings her the time and perspective that come with stepping away from public service. I thank her for her years of service to the state.

“At the same time, this announcement represents an opportunity for the Michigan State Police to begin turning the page and rebuilding trust within its own ranks. For far too long, troopers and command officers have raised serious concerns about leadership culture, morale and retaliation – concerns that have been validated by overwhelming no-confidence votes from the people who put the uniform on every day.

“The men and women of MSP deserve leaders they believe in and respect, leaders who understand the job because they have lived it and worked their way up through the ranks. This moment should prompt a broader conversation about the direction of the department’s leadership overall, because one retirement alone will not fix systemic problems.

“Whoever is chosen to step into this role must be a proven law enforcement professional who puts troopers first and is committed to restoring confidence, accountability, and professionalism throughout the department.”