Two Sterling Heights Police Officers Face Felony Charges Over Use of K9 in Suspect Apprehension

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Two officers are charged with misconduct and assault after a pursuit involving questionable use of a police K9.

LANSING, Mich. — Sterling Heights Police Officers James Sribniak, 31, and Jack Currie, 29, have been charged with Misconduct in Office and Felonious Assault following an incident earlier this year where a police K9 was deployed on a suspect who had already been subdued. The charges, announced by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel on October 8, 2024, stem from the officers' actions during the pursuit and arrest of a Roseville man in February.

The charges each carry significant potential penalties, with Misconduct in Office punishable by up to five years in prison, while Felonious Assault carries a maximum four-year sentence.

Officers Allegedly Used Excessive Force Following Suspect's Surrender

The incident in question took place on February 25, 2024, after the officers pursued a domestic violence suspect who fled from a traffic stop. After a combined vehicular and foot chase, the suspect was surrounded by officers, lying on the ground after being tased twice. According to the Attorney General's statement, Officer Currie urged Officer Sribniak to deploy his K9 unit to bite the suspect, despite the fact that the man was already restrained. Sribniak complied, and the police dog bit the suspect on the right hip.

Attorney General Dana Nessel condemned the officers' actions, emphasizing the need for responsible use of police dogs. "K9 assistance can be a valuable tool for law enforcement but must be deployed with good judgment. In this incident, deploying a K9 on a suspect already on the ground and well-surrounded by officers is not only horrific but illegal."

Nessel further stressed that law enforcement officers are extensively trained in handling police dogs and are expected to uphold high standards of conduct, especially in situations involving the use of force.

Charges and Future Court Proceedings

The officers face one count each of Misconduct in Office and Felonious Assault, with both awaiting arraignment in 39th District Court in Roseville. No court dates have been set as of yet. If convicted, the officers could face several years behind bars, underscoring the gravity of the allegations.

This case adds to a growing list of incidents scrutinizing police conduct and use of force, particularly in situations involving the deployment of K9 units. Attorney General Nessel’s office has committed to continuing investigations into instances of police misconduct to ensure accountability.

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