Questions raised at University of Michigan Regents meeting about absence of campus police chief
Questions were raised at today’s University of Michigan Board of Regents meeting about the absence of the campus police chief, who university officials say has been on medical leave since last fall.
Former university employee Doug Smith, who spoke before the U-M Board of Regents today, alleged Kenneth Magee is under investigation for inappropriate behavior.
It’s a claim both Magee’s attorney and U-M officials deny.
Magee, who earns $182,000 annually, has been on paid medical leave since Oct. 27. Meanwhile, Magee has filed paperwork with the Washtenaw County Clerk’s Office to open a magic business in downtown Ann Arbor.
Smith told regents he’s heard Magee is under investigation for possible inappropriate behavior. Rumors about the reason for Magee’s absence have been circulating since he went on leave, documents show.
Kenneth Magee
“We are aware of the rumors, and they are unfortunate,” said Magee’s attorney, Nick Roumel. “He’s just on sick leave.”
University spokesman Rick Fitzgerald said Magee is not under investigation.
“I won’t talk about rumors, only facts,” he said. “(Magee) is on medical leave. He is still an employee of the university.”
Smith said during his public comments that he talked to Pittsfield Township Public Safety Director Matt Harshberger and was told Harshberger had a conversation with Magee about inappropriate behavior.
Harshberger confirmed this evening he had spoken with Magee about a “situation” with one of his officers, but he said no formal complaint was ever filed. He declined to discuss the situation or any specifics of his conversation with Magee.
The rumors about why Magee is on leave started almost immediately, prompting Deputy Chief Charlie Noffsinger to send an e-mail to all public safety employees on Nov. 3.
“Chief Magee has been on sick leave the last several days,” the e-mail said. “I have now heard various rumors concerning Chief Magee and his absence from work. My expectation is that department employees will not engage in rumors regarding employees or their illness.”
That e-mail was obtained by AnnArbor.com under a Freedom of Information Act request. U-M denied AnnArbor.com’s request for Magee’s personnel file, citing an exemption for law enforcement personnel files.
AnnArbor.com also requested any written communications to Magee’s supervisor, Hank Baier, about Magee’s leave or conduct. The university denied parts of the request, saying several records were protected by attorney-client privilege and a section of the FOIA act that exempts public bodies from disclosing “certain communications and notes of an advisory nature.”
While on leave, Magee has apparently been working at Antelope Antiques & Coins on Liberty Street in Ann Arbor. AnnArbor.com reporters have seen Magee there on several occasions over the past week, many times alone in the store, and have made purchases from him.
On Jan. 3, Magee filed an application with the county to register the business name Ann Arbor Magic at 255 E. Liberty St., the same location as Antelope Antiques & Coins, the filing shows.
University rules state “employment outside the university while on a leave of absence is cause for termination of university employment unless the appropriate University Human Resources office approves the employment in advance, or the employment is for government service or military service.”
Roumel said Magee isn’t working and is just indulging his hobbies while on leave. Magee, who has been U-M's police chief since November 2008, did not respond to requests to comment from AnnArbor.com.
“It’s just a hobby. For many years, Ken has had an interest in antiques, primarily Michigan memorabilia,” Roumel said in an e-mail to AnnArbor.com “Sometimes he sells things on consignment in local stores. One business recently asked him to do a DBA, primarily for tax purposes, and Ken complied. Another hobby is magic - thus the moniker.
“The owner of Antelope Antiques is also a close friend, and Ken visits the store frequently. But he is absolutely not employed there, or anywhere else other than U-M. I certainly don’t consider him to be in violation of the Standard Practice Guide, and I doubt U-M cares about Ken’s hobbies.”
The university isn’t concerned Magee is violating its rules, Fitzgerald said.
“It is our understanding that Mr. Magee is not employed by the business you cite or any other business,” Fitzgerald said in an e-mail to AnnArbor.com.
Fitzgerald said it is not against U-M guidelines for employees on medical leave to own a business.
“I can tell you that there is no investigation involving Mr. Magee,” Fitzgerald said. “As you know from our past conversations, the university will not go into detail about what we consider to be personnel matters.”
David Jesse covers higher education for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at davidjesse@annarbor.com or at 734-623-2534.
Comments
christy
Sun, Jan 23, 2011 : 5:54 a.m.
I was surprised to see so many comments left for this article, then I read it and the comments and all I am left wondering is why so many are coming at this like they are. Fitzgerald, the University spokesperson said there is no investigation, the guy is on sick leave, can own a business and isn't working for anyone while on sick leave. Sick leave is something he is entitled to. I don't feel that it is anyones business what he is sick with.
Kai Petainen
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 8:09 p.m.
Perhaps no link to this story, but the question was raised as to what events happened during that time. During the summer/fall of 2010, I can think of 3 major events that directly involved the UofM DPS. 1. Chris Armstrong vs. Andrew Shrivel 2. Increased security around the Big House -- close the road. 3. The still unsolved petroleum spill (88% confidence phosphoric acid spill) on the Huron River. There were bank robberies, but I believe those were looked at by the City Police.
David Briegel
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 4:31 p.m.
I'm certain he is a great guy. Even great guys can make mistakes. Maybe this whole matter has nothing to do with health. Maybe it has to do with the operation or performance of his department. Was there anything unusual going on around the time his leave began? Maybe Doug Smith is someone who believes in truth and justice? That can be an uncommon trait in some circles!
Craig Lounsbury
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 1:30 p.m.
I found this link to he University handbook that suggests one could be eligible for as much as 6 months of full pay on an extended sick leave. Personally I think 6 months is overly generous but it is what it is. My concern is the spirit/purpose of the provision is to assist folks who CAN'T work, not folks who don't feel like working. Given that notion, I belive at some point its reasonable to begin asking questions about what Mr. Magee is and isn't able to do with respect to his job. Especially when he seems to be functioning well in his "hobby capacity". As tax payers we are Mr. Magee's ultimate employers albeit with layers of "supervisors" between us. <a href="http://hr.umich.edu/staffhandbook/paidtimeoff/extended.html" rel='nofollow'>http://hr.umich.edu/staffhandbook/paidtimeoff/extended.html</a>
average joe
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 3:59 a.m.
T-T-cartel- So how long does is one allowed leave under the FMLA, and still be allowed to work, I'm sorry, 'help' at a local store? FMLA is a tool to help a family member (or yourself) who is in imediate need, not time off to start a new business venture like the facts indicate. And I thought the U/M spokeperson said he was on medical leave.
treetowncartel
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 3:03 a.m.
Can we get a discussion about the FMLA? Or doesn't anyone know about that staute?
treetowncartel
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 2:56 a.m.
Hah, integrity, hard word to swallow, especially for news organizations. Judge not lest ye be judged. My comment was removed for those who are wondering I met Ken when he worked for the DEA many years ago and he is a great guy for those who are on topic. A2.com = epic fail. Should I cancel my subscription? It might mean a paycheck.
Marvin Face
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 2:46 a.m.
This reeks of "loss of institutional control". When this charge is levied against an athletic coach, the coach is usually fired soon after. Hank Baier is the supervisor, he should be fired.
treetowncartel
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 2:59 a.m.
Marvin, great point, I made one in front of you but it was "quashed". I think you might consider it as informative. But, this too shall pass.
AlphaAlpha
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 2:17 a.m.
"All police work is dangerous..." This is myth. Most police work is quite safe. Witness recent example of Pittsfield Twp: 1st shot fired by any officer in over 30 years.
Nephilim
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 4:12 p.m.
Yea tell that to the livonia officers family. Tell that to the two Miami officers families.....the list continues........shaking my head at you alpha
average joe
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 1:48 a.m.
I think the only thing that smells to most people & what really gets one to wonder or 'fill in blanks' is the fact that this guy is on paid sick leave but is well enough to work("or help") at a local store. If he is physically able to do this, then he is probably physically able to go back to his job at U of M. It isn't like he was a " beat-cop". As for the "stress from the job" assumption, then he probably should resign & do his magic.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:52 p.m.
People tend to "talk" when a public institution denies files, denies information and the employee hires employment lawyer. Not to mention taking a months long "medical leave" and working at another place where he actually was waiting on reporters! And all of this time he is paid by our tax dollars. Gosh, witch hunt? I there should be rewards for people who are willing to blow the whistle on those who rip off the taxpayers. And it should be paid by the offender. I think U of M officials owe the taxpayers some money.
Patricia G.
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:04 p.m.
Look at all these comments. This is a witch hunt for heaven sakes. Instead of "throwing the first stone" why don't you keep your accusing comments to yourselves and not judge. What kind of an expert is Doug Smith on this situation and why is his nose getting so "out of joint" about everything.
EagleOne
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 9:44 p.m.
I've been following this story and it enrages me. So.......I did a "google" search in all fairness, to find out more about this story and I found a link to an Oregon newspaper that outlined a leave of absence from his previous position in the DEA office.. I'm wondering if this was a similar type of "leave".....for as they say, "Where there's smoke, there's fire!" Is there anyway AnnArbor.com could could pursue this?
lynn moore
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:05 p.m.
Just seems strange that a police administrator on medical leave does not have access to his University e-mail, and is not allowed to enter the U of M Police Dept. Medical leave - Right!.. Just be honest U of M.. Integrity, Honor, and Courage...
Alexandra Johnson
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 8:08 p.m.
There is something so wrong with this story, and it doesn't take an intellectual to see through this. For the Regents, lawyer and University to protect whatever is taking place, definitely does not shine a very bright light on their integrity. If there is an issue, then the University Regents and Hank Baier should stand up and say what it is. Eventually, the truth will come forth, and everyone will ask, "why?" would the University do this. $180,000 would feed a LOT of people. Instead, the University continues to pay this salary to a "Chief" who wants to open a magic store. It seems to me that perhaps the University is going to "pull this rabbit" out of their hats. Please have more respect for us. We are smarter than what we are being made to look like. Thank you AnnArbor.com for reporting this story, and I hope you are able to continuing to do so. There is much more information to be had.
lynn moore
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 8:44 p.m.
and that my friends sums this story up perfectly....out with the old and bring in the new!! Dont hold your breath for them to do the right thing....At this point I dont think there capable of that
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 8:39 p.m.
Well stated!! Why is it that the University demands integrity and a high level of accountability from their officers (which they should) and then ducks and hides when they are questioned. Mr. Hank Baier and Mr. Charlie Noffsinger, it is time you come front and center and give an account of everything. No excuses and the public expects you to be forthcoming, totally honest, and quit hiding information. The fact that Hank Baier refuses to speak publically about this speaks volumes. Maybe it is time to clean house in this area of the UM and Baier, Noffsinger, and Piersante should go and a new police administration brought in.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 7:59 p.m.
Whoever Doug Smith is, he sounds like someone who is willing to step up and ask questions and not let things be done behind the taxpayer's back. I applaud that. Employers using taxpayer dollars to operate in any way....need to be held accountable. It sounds like Mr Smith is fearless. To bring this up to the BOR takes courage. We need more whistle blowers in the public sector, especially in the administrative ranks.. It's about time! And it sounds like Ann Arbor.com already was aware that there was some sleight of hand going on in more ways than one. While other people are digging and clawing for a job, this guy being paid $182K by a public university and has been for months. And he's working at a store in Ann Arbor. I'd rather that money go to some laid off janitors...it would probably pay 4 or 5 of them.
CountyKate
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 7:24 p.m.
Who is this Doug Smith who seems to have brought this topic to the Regents? Is he the same Doug Smith who went gunning for the Ypsilanti Police Department because of their use of Tasers? If so, is this a person who just has a beef with police in general? I think it's odd that the same name, with some identifiers that make it seem like this is one person, is attached to two stories about alleged police problems. Who is this guy?
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:16 p.m.
Thank God for people like Mr Smith who speak up!
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:08 p.m.
I was wondering the same thing Katie.
trespass
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 9:45 p.m.
Perhaps he is someone who believes in civilian oversight of police.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 7:23 p.m.
@Ron Granger "Or, is it that you believe people should not get medical leave? What professional would ever choose to work under the circumstances you propose?" I haven't really proposed anything, other than to ask questions. I have stated I have no problem with medical leave, but it must have limits. I am only asking what reasonable limit might be. 3 months? 3 years? 30 years? "Or, is it that you believe that if they get sick, they should "resign", and lose their medical coverage?" No only if their 'medical problem stems from the nature their job and prevents them from doing their job. If a flight attendant is deathly afraid of flying they should look for another job rather than continually go on medical leave over their fear. "Or, is it the salary that bothers you? That above some threshold of compensation, an employee loses their legal right to medical privacy, the right that everyone else has?" Again the answer is no. But in my opinion when one expects to draw full pay while being unable to work one loses a certain amount of privacy in exchange for the check.
Ron Granger
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 6:38 p.m.
@Craig Lounsbury: "I would suggest if you can't handle the stress of your job the solution is to resign, not collect full pay to not do it." -- You do understand the stress was just one possible example. His doctor's professional opinion is all that is necessary Or, is it that you believe people should not get medical leave? What professional would ever choose to work under the circumstances you propose? Or, is it that you believe that if they get sick, they should "resign", and lose their medical coverage? Or, is it the salary that bothers you? That above some threshold of compensation, an employee loses their legal right to medical privacy, the right that everyone else has? I have no doubt that among the thousands of University employees, there are others who are taking months of medical leave. They are all entitled to the same privacy. If you would like to see the employment terms changed for all University employees, the perhaps you should get involved on the policy level. But to single out a specific person is inappropriate.
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:07 p.m.
Cash. The university policy is contained in a document called the Standard Practice Guide. The name is key. "Standard" allows for flexibility. There is room to bend, even break standard policy if circumstances support it. So whatever agreement may have been made UM policy can apply by an agreed upon exception.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 7:05 p.m.
Of course people should be allowed medical leave when they are too sick to work. The U of M policy clearly states that. It also states that they cannot work somewhere else. The U of M "employment terms" are NOT Being followed here. He was a salesperson at the store and waited on AA.com reporters for Pete's sake!! I don't care what his hobby is, that is WORK. According to U of M employment rules he should be fired. University rules state "employment outside the university while on a leave of absence is cause for termination of university employment unless the appropriate University Human Resources office approves the employment in advance, or the employment is for government service or military service."
Trouble
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 6:12 p.m.
Any way you look at this... it is a S C A M. Tax payer monies squandered again. Surprise, surprise. 187K to " shop for antiques ". If Snyder doesn't move big time to cut tax payer money to the Ultra Rich U of M, it will be same ol' same ol'. Nice hire U of M., this just smells big time! But who cares??? It's the public's money.
New Day
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:17 p.m.
Strange...Very strange.....
Bill
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:37 p.m.
At least the Regents are asking about Mr. Magee's whereabouts. I have to agree with Cash, there is something odd about a high ranking official to be out on sick leave since Oct. 27? That is just bad HR.
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 7:02 p.m.
The Regents NEED to be asking about his whereabouts and this is another mess under President Coleman which reflects on her. She does oversee the hiring of these officials and I would bet she interviewed Mr Magee.
trespass
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 6:38 p.m.
The Regents are not asking about his whereabouts. They were asked about his whereabouts but ignored the question.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:34 p.m.
"Chief of police is a demanding, high stress position. The pressure to make the correct decisions is intense. There are many medical conditions where you can't work in high stress, but which do allow you to do activities which do not cause stress. There are also medications which compromise your judgement, and preclude working in certain positions." I would suggest if you can't handle the stress of your job the solution is to resign, not collect full pay to not do it.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:30 p.m.
I appreciate and realize people have a right to some degree of privacy with respect to medical issues. But at what point does ones right to privacy clash with drawing a $15,000 a month paycheck not to work?
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:25 p.m.
Af3201sps: What? What are proposing? Developing sources? Getting to know certain people who are in the know? Buying a beer for an off duty cop? Absurd!! That was journalism. It died a long time ago, about the time the FOIA law came into effect. Now, reporters simply drop a FOIA and ask for the news.
Ron Granger
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:11 p.m.
First, I don't know this guy, and I haven't heard any rumors. At first glance, this situation appears to stink, and I can see how it would rile people up. But, if you stop to think for a moment, before judging, you can easily see many potential good reasons. Come on people, it isn't that hard. The man is entitled to his medical privacy. You have no right to get into his business. Surely you have neighbors whom you desperately need to to spy on, and annoy? It is trivially simple: Chief of police is a demanding, high stress position. The pressure to make the correct decisions is intense. There are many medical conditions where you can't work in high stress, but which do allow you to do activities which do not cause stress. There are also medications which compromise your judgement, and preclude working in certain positions. I'm sure a lot of people are jealous that the U of M does provide great benefits, and that employees can take a leave to get treatment for a medical condition. It should be that way for all of us, unfortunately it isn't. Many of us work our entire lives, and yet we are one serious illness away from ruin. Try and judge a little less, give the guy the benefit of the doubt, and hopefully he'll be back on the job soon.
lynn moore
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:30 p.m.
Most people would have stress related issues if they were involved in this investigation....regarding inappropriate conduct with women!!!!
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:28 p.m.
Right. But the thing is there are contradictions. We have a police chief that made a comment that it is not a health matter. And it is odd wouldn't you say, that he has an employment lawyer retained? Something does not make sense. These are clues.
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 4:53 p.m.
While I am glad that this story has finally surfaced. It is old news to alot of people in the law enforcement and UM community. I am really frustrated that AnnArbor.com is not doing a better job at getting at this. While I appreciate David Jesse reporting this story. An investigative news agency needs to get to the bottom of this. Taxpayers have a right to know the details of how taxpayer money is spent. When there are questions, we deserve an answer, wherever that may lead. If there is nothing to hide, then why doesn't Mr. Roumel, Ken Magee, Hank Baier, Charlie Noffsinger, and the many UM tale spinners sit down with the press and public and explain this situation. Why is the DPS Oversight Committee not more involved in explaining this situation? Come on AA.com, get busy and get the facts out not just a few details. There is a paper trail and you need to force the UM to come clean here.
trespass
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 11:56 p.m.
Mick52 that is baloney. Read the state law. It's specific charge is to hear any grievance against a police officer or the department. Other officers have been accused of sexual misconduct. Just look at the lawsuits against campus police officers in the Regents litigation report. The problem has been that the committee has been largely non-functional and rarely met. That is how the administration wanted it.
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 9:58 p.m.
The charge given to the oversight committee does not apply to personnel matters.
bmj
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:51 p.m.
Mr. Magee will have to retain an attorney if he wants to have any medical privacy. It cost me 1K + to keep a job at U-M just because a co-worker insisted on knowing my personal business. This was for a two (2) week University approved medical leave!
Stephen Landes
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:39 p.m.
Is the $182k salary for the U's "top cop" typical of what is being paid to employees? If so it seems to me that the U can start reducing expenses by paying people a more reasonable salary. I can't believe that this position really rates a salary that high.
average joe
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:32 p.m.
So if it is not out of the ordinary for an employee like this to be on an extended sick leave under these unknown circumstances, why does he have to retain the services of an attorney? This fact lends support that there is much more to this story than the U/M is admitting to.
David Jesse
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:20 p.m.
To those asking: We reached out to Mr. Magee for his side of the story and his attorney contacted us on Magee's behalf. We posed a number of questions to him and have included the information we got in the story. We've added a line to the story noting this information.
sigdiamond
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:07 p.m.
Never, ever trust a magician.
MRunner
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:02 p.m.
AA.com may think that it is doing the community a service by bringing this issue to light, but this is an incomplete work of reporting that is seemingly written simply to raise the ire of the message board watchdogs. I don't blame AnnArbor.com for raising the issue, but if you are going to do so, please do so with a little more journalistic integrity. Why wasn't any attempt made to get Magee's side of the story from Magee himself? Aa.com reporters clearly have had direct personal contact with him on "several occasions over the past week," as described in the article. If that is correct, then why not make an attempt to get any comment from him? If an attempt was made, and declined, then include that in the story. Otherwise, this is journalistic cowardice which only adds to the rumors and inflammatory rhetoric that Smith is passing along at the Regents meeting. Again, I'm not saying that nothing is wrong here, I'm saying that aa.com is doing an insufficient job if they have numerous contacts with the subject of a piece like this without trying to get his side of the story. Without any more facts, the mind jumps to fill in the gaps. The angrier you are with the University, or the police, or whomever, it seems the more creative the assumptions. So, what do we know? Magee is out on medical leave. For what? Instantly commentators assume he is bilking the system if he is not suffering at home. Maybe it was an injury rather than an illness, and not being allowed back at the desk, he is hanging out with his friends at Antelope. Maybe it is a mental health/emotional leave. Perhaps the doctors suggested getting out with friends, enjoy your hobbies, and take some personal time. We do know that those individuals with all of the facts (Magee's bosses at the University) have commented that Magee is not violating any University protocols. Aa.com isn't continuing to dig for a story here- they just continue to spread the dirt around the surface of an apparent non-issue.
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 7:36 p.m.
@bmj He is a highly paid public official and there are other stories floating around his departure. The public is owed an explanation about that portion of it. I could care less about his medical issues. When you are a public official, there is a certain amount of accountability required. That is all people are asking for. On top of that, he has hired an attorney that specializes in lawsuits against employers and protects employees when they have been terminated or suspended. If it were only an issue of medical leave, why have an attorney. Matt Harshberger himself stated there was inappropriate behavior that had to be addressed.
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:20 p.m.
If you did something inappropriate that lead to your suspension from work, would you give your side of the story? Not saying that is the case here, but in any case of inappropriate behavior.
bmj
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 3 p.m.
Medical Leave does not mean house arrest people. And everyone does have the right to privacy regarding their medical condition. There are plenty of reasons for a person to not be able to function in their job, but still able to function in some daily activities. This is really no one's business if this is a medically approved leave of absence. I hope U-M backs this man's privacy for him. Some things are sensitve. Please try to think about this. How do you know that maybe someone drove him to this hobby store? Maybe he is on a medication that requires him not to drive or operate machinery. Did you even think about that? This is a horrible thing to do to someone who obviously is dealing with a private stressful situation. Shame on you Ann Arbor News
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:44 p.m.
Without any more facts??? The reporter went to the store, where only the chief was present, and purchased things from him. Whether he is paid or not, he is working there. He is on paid sick leave. The university policy says that an employee cannot work somewhere else while on sick leave. If you don't enforce that for this person, then every UofM employee should go out on paid sick leave and apply for jobs. There is no way out of this one. It's plain WRONG and an offense to taxpayers.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:24 p.m.
I was with you for the most part till..."an apparent non-issue.", you lost me there.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:27 p.m.
I agree with those who smell something fishy. The guy has been on a paid leave for sneaking up on 3 months now. It further appears he's able to work in some capacity based on those who have seen him doing so, paid or not. I don't know the legalities of these sorts of things but it sure seems some sort of independent investigation on behalf of the tax payers is in order.
Steve Pepple
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:14 p.m.
A comment has been removed pending further review.
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 9:54 p.m.
Some investigative reporting being done Steve?
spm
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 11:57 a.m.
Being an employee of UM, I'm irritated that he's being allowed to have paid sick leave and yet has a "hobby" of working at his friends store, while also wanting to start up his own shop...all while on the UM dime. If he can do a hobby standing on his feet a few hours a day, then he can come back to work a few hours a day. Considering I know people in other departments that are now being laid off, while others have to reapply for their own job but will be getting a lower salary once they get "re-hired", I'm fed up at how UM treats certain people with kid gloves.
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:28 a.m.
Something is not right with this situation and I am glad that AA.com is on to it. It seems the UM is denying FOIA requests and doing their typical PR job in trying to cover something up. Nick Roumel is an attorney that primarily handles employment/employee rights types issues at Nacht law. He is also a criminal defense lawyer. If you or I were simply out on sick leave, would we need a lawyer of this type to represent us? The investigation may be over and that allows the UM to say there is no investigation. Magee remains an employee of the UM while Mr. Roumel negotiates an end to his contract. That is the understanding that people inside UM have and that Magee will not return as police chief. Matt Harshberger confirmed that there was some type of "inappropriate behavior". The fact that Magee has a lawyer doing the talking is troublesome. The UM would probably like this situation to go away. I hope AA.com will continue to follow this story. Mr. Magee, since he is still on the public payroll, should have no problem coming forward and telling the truth about what is going on instead of hiding behind his lawyer. This should be no problem for him especially since he is busy performing magic tricks and working in the store on East Liberty.
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:18 p.m.
Maybe Nick is his doctor. Very good point you have noted. Well done.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:30 p.m.
all comrades are created equal...but some comrades are more equal than others.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:19 a.m.
I didn't read into this article that this was a bad man or didn't do a good job as a police chief. What I did read is that a U of M administrator was given PAID SICK leave. And Ann Arbor.com reporters have actually witnessed him working at a store in town. Now whether that work is working at a hobby he has or not is not material to me. How many of you who are working could take a PAID SICK leave and be seen working at another place and still have a job? I also have to wonder if this was Joe Schmo sweeping Chrysler Arena and on PAID sick leave and seen working elsewhere....what would UM's policy be? I have known of PIs hired to watch workers on sick leave suspected of "milking" the system. Now in this case, reporters observed him working and U of M administrators are saying it's fine. What's wrong with this picture? Good guy or not, in these difficult times, state funding being so tight, can we afford to pay what I consider to be high wages to a person on sick leave who is working elsewhere? I don't think so.
Craig Lounsbury
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:16 p.m.
well put Cash
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:32 a.m.
@Cash. I agree with you and people should demand the UM come forward with the facts. They forget that Magee's salary come from the taxpayers and we have a right to know what is going on. If there is nothing to hide, allow AA.com to see the documents related to this situation.
frozenhotchocolate
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 8:33 a.m.
Well he knows he can get away with it so he will do it. If I had a union job I would be all about getting paid for nothing. What I don't really understand is that he is above union and kinda like management, so he is getting paid to open a business that will fail in six months. Who does magic tricks anymore. What a knucklehead.
EyeHeartA2
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:03 a.m.
"Magee, who earns $182,000 annually" according to this site: <a href="http://police.umich.edu/docs/org_chart.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://police.umich.edu/docs/org_chart.pdf</a> Magee oversees all of 14 people. Isn't $182k a bit much for this? I thought UM had to tighten it's belt a bit.
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 9:52 p.m.
You might want to look at the chart a little more carefully. Some of those boxes represent many people.
alan
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 4:49 a.m.
$182,000 is pretty hefty for a relatively small police force.
SMAIVE
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 4:19 a.m.
"I can tell you that there is no investigation involving Mr. Magee," Fitzgerald said. Well, I think that's about to change...
UtrespassM
Sat, Jan 22, 2011 : 2:02 a.m.
"I can tell you that there is no investigation involving Mr. Magee," Fitzgerald said. same as: " We don't want to investigate , and you will not able to know it"
boom
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 4:18 a.m.
His salary is $182,000 annually? I don't think the Ann Arbor police chief makes that much. I wonder how many employees are in the U of M police department. More than Ann Arbor's?
dragon
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:47 a.m.
I agree with aataxpayer...let's not jump to conclusions. I have known Chief Magee for several years....he bleeds the University of Michigan. The University of Michigan DPS seems to be a professional organization. The people I have dealt with our quite pleasant and helpful. The department doesn't have as many problems as most departments and interact with faculty and staff with great professionalism. We will have to see what the University says in response to this article but the man I know as Chief Magee would not of jepordized his postion or career. Keep your head up Chief Magee and hope for a speedy recovery!
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:52 a.m.
@dragon. If you know Magee so well, please ask him to come forward and speak to this situation. He is a public figure and on the public payroll. He has lost all credibility by hiding behind his lawyer.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:49 a.m.
"he bleeds the University of Michigan"...and it seems that he bleeds us, the taxpayers as well.
a2roots
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:47 a.m.
Kenny is a good ol Ann Arbor kid that has done some damn good police work over the years. All police work is dangerous but his was a step beyond. I for one hope this all gets sorted out and that he gets back to doing his job. Again, only one side of the so called story reported and far too many assumptions being made.
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:42 a.m.
@a2roots. Alot of people in Ann Arbor know Ken Magee since he grew up here and alot of people know SOMETHING happened. Magee isn't talking which is only adding to the problem and he has lost credibility with alot of us. My understanding from friends at UM is that his officers are very confused by his behavior and refusal to speak to them. If he is only on sick leave then nothing needs to get "sorted out" and Magee should gladly maintain contact with his officers and friends in Ann Arbor; something he is not doing which makes this whole situation suspect.
aataxpayer
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:30 a.m.
I witnessed a mildly disturbing event outside of Chrysler before a basketball game and decided to report to an officer once I enter the building. It turned out the officer was Ken Magee. He handled it perfectly and was absolutely professional. Let's be careful about jumping to conclusions.
UtrespassM
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:11 a.m.
Who is his doctor? I know people under chemo working at U-M because of having kids to feed.
UtrespassM
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 2:01 a.m.
How could a people on paid sick leave able to work somewhere else? I am going to talk to my boss and HR at U-M tomorrow.
Linda Peck
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:26 a.m.
This is good reporting on a situation that needs addressing by people who are unbiased, but who actually pay taxes. The University of Michigan does not pay taxes, but perhaps it should. It might look at this magically disappearing money situation differently.
Max Maximus
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:17 a.m.
So who would like to hear Mr. Magee's side of the story? I certainly would. I've got a pretty good feeling there are two sides to this story. But everyone loves a good conspiracy......................
Mick52
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 5:14 p.m.
Do you think you would get his side if there is inappropriate behavior involved? That's a clue.
af3201sps
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 10:54 a.m.
I would love to hear his side versus the rumors. We need to hear it directly from him. Not the UM and certainly not a lawyer who gets paid to protect employees rights. Perhaps Mr Magee could at least tell people (including those in his department) when his estimated time of returning to the department is. This story is not going away until he does so. I heard that Channel 7 is actually trying to investigate this story and talk to Magee.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:19 a.m.
Max I think UM administrators are doing a pretty good job of telling his side already. Or hiding it. Either way.
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1:12 a.m.
I wonder if this is what Snyder had in mind when he said universities need to tighten their belts? Pay someone $185,000 to a person who isn't at work and is supposedly out SICK but is working at a antique store.....not exactly belt tightening folks. Now, Mr Bomey THIS would be a good item to ask Snyder about!
Cash
Fri, Jan 21, 2011 : 1 a.m.
Our tax dollars at work. DPS is paid out of general fund money...tuition and taxpayer monies. Something really stinks here. Sounds like a big cover up. But at UM there are so many ways to hide things no one will ever know. Soon he will take a nice juicy retirement and all will be forgotten. By the way, good catch AA.com reporters! I can just hear you now "Hey doesn't that guy behind the counter look like the chief of police?......" LOL Should have gotten an 8X10 glossy to lead off the story!