A Southfield physician has been convicted for her role in a $20 million conspiracy to illegally prescribe opioid pills
was found guilty Friday in federal court in Detroit of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute prescription opioids and 10 counts of illegal distribution of oxycodone and oxymorphone
Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Julie Beck said
who abused her position of trust by prescribing opioids in exchange for cash
underscores the FBI's strong commitment to holding medical professionals accountable under federal law," Cheyvoryea Gibson
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan
"Physicians and other healthcare providers are entrusted with the well-being of our communities and are expected to maintain the highest ethical standards
Those who violate that trust for personal financial gain can expect to be investigated and brought to justice by the FBI's Detroit Field Office
I also want to thank our partners at the U.S
Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General for their collaboration and support throughout this case."
Valentine's attorney was not immediately available for comment on Thursday
The defendant was among five people, including another doctor, indicted in 2018 for allegedly running a $20 million conspiracy to unlawfully distribute prescription opioids
Authorities accused her and another doctor at Orthopedic Medical Building Inc
in Oak Park of issuing and dispensing a large amount of prescription opioids to fake patients who did not have a legitimate medical need
Federal investigators said Valentine issued more than 3,000 prescriptions for more than 200,000 pills to supposed "patients" from November 2016 until July 2018
accepted only cash and charged patients $200 to $500 per prescription
patients were not charged if they didn't get an opioid prescription
Agents also said the prices were not based on the service provided but the quantity
Prosecutors alleged Valentine was paid about 50% of the clinic’s proceeds
They said she was only paid if she wrote an opioid prescription to a patient
The other defendants charged in the case previously pleaded guilty
"Addressing the sources of the opioid epidemic — which include addictive opioid prescription pills as well as street drugs — remains a top priority of this office," Beck said
rather than helping to address the terrible impact of the opioid epidemic
use the cover of a 'medical office' to write illegal prescriptions for the opioids that fuel the crisis."
Last year, a former St. Clair Shores doctor described by authorities as running a "pill mill" received a 20-year prison sentence for illegally distributing prescription drugs
including one instance in which a patient died of an overdose
And a Shelby Township doctor was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for his role in a scheme to illegally distribute opioid pills
In 2023, a former Grosse Pointe Park pharmacist was convicted by a federal jury in connection with the unlawful distribution of prescription drug-controlled substances
A plan to build 577 units of mixed-income housing and new retail space in Southfield off Evergreen Road took a big step forward April 22
The $209 million Middlepointe development received approval from the quasi-public Michigan Strategic Fund in Lansing for an incentive
without which the project is said to not be feasible
Middlepointe calls for the construction of four buildings as well as a six-story parking deck on an empty 8-acre site at 26011 Evergreen
across the road from Southfield's municipal campus
The site has been vacant since an office building was demolished there in 2009
“This is a key corner and remains a visual gap in the heart of the city of Southfield,” Southfield City Administrator Fred Zorn told members of the Michigan Strategic Fund
Middlepointe's development team is led by Hassan Jawad
who said that they hope to begin construction in September
have the first building open by August 2026 and complete the development by late 2028
“This has been a project that has been years in the making," Jawad said during Tuesday's virtual meeting of the Michigan Strategic Fund
Asking rents for the apartments would range from $1,340 for a studio unit to $2,300 for a two-bedroom unit
90 would be set aside as "affordable" at below-market rents for individuals and families making no more than 80% of Oakland County's area median income
or $56,560 for a single person or $72,720 for a family of three
Middlepointe is the 10th Transformational Brownfield development in Michigan to be approved since the program began in 2017
The program works by capturing various streams of future local and state-level tax revenues generated at a new development site over 20 to 30 years
then funneling that money to a project's developers
Those captured revenue streams would include 100% of the state income taxes paid by future apartment dwellers who live in the development
and 50% of the state income taxes paid by future workers in the development's commercial spaces
The total value of Middlepointe's Transformation Brownfield would be $131.8 million over 30 years
The developers are contributing about 22% of the equity for the $209 million project
Contact JC Reindl: 313-378-5460 or jcreindl@freepress.com. Follow him on X @jcreindl
– Employers and hiring managers in Metro Detroit are being called to attend the Michigan Job Fair
Hired in Michigan is hosting the job fair on Wednesday
2025 at the Radisson Hotel at 26555 Telegraph Road in Southfield
and is open to job seeks from across Metro Detroit
More than 500 people looking for employment are expected to attend
“This is a call to action for Michigan’s business leaders,” said CJ Eason
“We’re calling on Metro Detroit businesses to step up
and make a difference by offering people real opportunities on the spot.”
Michigan Job Fair by snpowers on Scribd
Employers who want to participate in the job fair can register for a hiring table by calling 248-237-3600 ext. 1, emailing lisa@hireinmichigan or visiting the Hired in Michigan website.
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Michigan Job Fair by snpowers on Scribd
(WXYZ) — A man has been charged with committing murder at a Southfield gas station
The incident happened on April 12 at a BP gas station on 8 Mile Road and Lahser Road
The victim has been identified as Eddie Clora
His loved ones are left behind with so many questions
Hear from Eddie Clora's family in the video player below:
we learned he's already entered a guilty plea
Barren says the victim and suspect were arguing after they got out of a car
The victim told them his friend stabbed him
The chief says the victim was stabbed in the chest and he died from those wounds
who were patrons of the store and also people walking past who stopped and then began to watch
between the witnesses who were at the gas station and also alerting (police)
we were able to get a response," Barren said
The victim's sister talked to reporters on Tuesday sharing that her brother was her only sibling of nine that was still alive
she's trying to wrap her head around the unthinkable
so careful who we invite into our lives and our personal space
Who would've thought my brother would be fighting for his life inside his vehicle and outside a gas station," Clora's sister Rhonda Wilson said
He'll have to pay 10% of that to be released
Placemaking projects will add critical housing
The projects build on the state’s ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy through developing attractive
thriving communities where people want to live and businesses want to grow
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board support for placemaking projects that will add critical housing
thriving communities where people want to live and businesses want to grow.
“Today’s projects will build 1,220 homes across Muskegon
and Ferndale and make these cities even better places to live
we’re turning empty spaces into vibrant places
These projects will help us continue our mission to help anyone ‘make it’ in Michigan
Let’s keep working together to make cities and towns across Michigan great places to live.”
“To build a Michigan where everyone can ‘Make It,’ we must invest in the places that people call home,” said Lt
“This support for community revitalization projects is helping transform neighborhoods
Let’s keep standing tall for community development so every person can build a great life right here in Michigan.”
“Developing attractive places and revitalizing communities are a key pillar in the state’s ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy of supporting People
CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Chair of the MSF Board
“Today’s approved projects continue to deliver on this strategy for fellow Michiganders
our bipartisan partners in the state legislature
and the volunteer MSF Board for their ongoing support of the critical economic development placemaking tools needed to make these projects a reality
but the approvals of these projects are additional steps forward in ensuring all Michiganders live in vibrant communities as the state addresses growing workplace housing demand.”
Overview: The MSF Board approved a Transformational Brownfield Plan (TBP) incentive package to support a redevelopment project at a former furniture manufacturing site in the City of Muskegon
commercial space and a parking garage to the area while serving as a catalyst for future investment.
The $159,598,389 TBP package requested by the City of Muskegon Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and developer Parkland Properties of Michigan will support redevelopment across seven buildings
creating an estimated 571 residential units and 74,549 square feet of commercial space
the project is anticipated to create 200 full-time jobs and bring an estimated total capital investment of $221,335,800.
president and founder of Parkland Properties of Michigan
founded the Parkland family of companies in 1988; today
the company is one of the largest real estate development firms in West Michigan with over two million square feet of building space currently developed or under development.
“On behalf of Parkland Properties of Michigan and the greater Muskegon community
we extend our sincere appreciation to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
the Michigan Strategic Fund and the City of Muskegon for their unrelenting support of the transformational Shaw Walker project,” said Jon Rooks
president/founder of Parkland Properties of Michigan
the Shaw Walker Furniture Company grew from an idea into the largest manufacturer of furniture and filing equipment in the world
these factory buildings have stood tall on the shores of Muskegon Lake embodying an era of vision and ambition
While the factory operations are no longer
these buildings have an opportunity to continue to support the needs of their community by providing over 500 housing units and space for supporting businesses
A project of this size and nature is complicated; we appreciate the public-private-partnership that will enable these buildings to continue to stand tall for future generations.”
“The City of Muskegon is grateful to the Michigan Strategic Fund Board for their consideration and approval of the Shaw Walker Project Transformational Brownfield,” said Jake Eckholm
director of Development Services with the City of Muskegon
“This facility has long been our community’s largest and most visible eyesore
and Parkland has stepped up to turn it into a once-in-a-generation asset
the strong residential demand in our traditional downtown
and the desire our residents have to beautify their neighborhoods
it would be hard to imagine a more beneficial project
City staff and the team at MEDC on this endeavor truly exemplifies a mutually beneficial public private partnership that will deliver great outcomes for the residents we serve.”
Overview: The MSF Board approved a Transformational Brownfield Plan (TBP) incentive package to support a multi-building redevelopment project that will reinvigorate blighted
vacant land in the center core of the City of Southfield through added housing
commercial space and community amenities.
The $131,822,436 TBP package requested by the City of Southfield Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and developer Middlepointe Investment Group LLC includes construction of a walkable
high-density mixed-use development including three multi-story
a single-story retail structure and one multi-story parking deck with ground-floor retail.
the project is planned to include 577 residential units
surface and structured parking spaces and 42,665 square feet of retail and commercial space
The project also includes two pocket parks and a pedestrian greenway connecting Southfield’s central park with development to the west
It is anticipated the overall project will create 100 full-time jobs and bring a total capital investment of $209,552,970.
The development team is led by Hassan Jawad
a seasoned real estate investor and developer with a longstanding track record of delivering transformative projects across Michigan
the Middlepointe Development Team brings deep collective expertise across real estate acquisition
The team has successfully developed and managed hundreds of residential units and significant commercial square footage
and mixed-use developments throughout Southeast Michigan.
Why It Matters: This transformational project will usher in a new era for the City of Southfield by attracting talent and businesses to the region
while linking existing assets and employment centers to help them grow through place-based investment
community green space and other amenities that will help to catalyze additional development and investment in the city while creating a transformational impact on local economic development and community revitalization.
The Middlepointe development builds on placemaking efforts for the City of Southfield, which became a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community in 2016.
"We're grateful to the Michigan Strategic Fund and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for their support of the Middlepointe Development," said Hassan Jawad
president of Middlepointe Investment Group
"This project represents a major investment in Southfield and the broader Southeast Michigan region4one that will create jobs
and help meet the growing demand for high-quality
Middlepointe is about more than buildings – it's about building opportunity
and contributing to a more inclusive and economically vibrant community."
“This is more than a redevelopment—it’s a rebirth,” said Southfield Mayor Dr
“The Middlepointe project will bring much-needed residential density
It’s a transformative investment in our future and a shining example of how public-private partnerships can reshape communities in profound and productive ways.”
“Revitalizing this long-vacant property in the heart of Southfield will contribute to a vibrant
thriving city center,” said state Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield)
“I’ve supported this project for years
and I’m excited to see it make real progress
with the promising potential to bring jobs
and walking paths — everything a community needs to be welcoming
and the developers for helping move our city forward.”
“I’ve supported this project since my time on Southfield City Council in 2019
and it’s incredibly rewarding to see it moving forward,” said State Representative Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield)
“This transformational redevelopment will breathe new life into the heart of Southfield -- turning long-vacant land into a vibrant
this project represents more than bricks and mortar -- it’s an investment in Southfield’s future and a catalyst for inclusive growth
and long-term revitalization.”
Overview: A blighted surface parking lot in the City of Ferndale will be converted into a multi-family
mixed-use property with 72 residential units and commercial space
adding housing and residential density to the community.
The residential component of the Vester Flats project
will be comprised of a mix of 45 studio units
the first floor includes approximately 1,585 square feet of commercial space
integrated under and located behind the building.
The MSF board approved a Michigan Community Revitalization Program direct loan of $3,950,000 to support the project
which will have a total anticipated capital investment of $22,252,990
The City of Ferndale has also supported the project with a Workforce PILOT valued at approximately $4.4 million over 15 years.
Why It Matters: In addition to creating mixed-income housing for the City of Ferndale
the redevelopment project will include public improvements for a more pedestrian-oriented streetscape along Vester Street and the adjacent alleyway
The project will also add public art and upgrades to the water and sewer service
providing cultural interest and infrastructure improvements to the area.
the development team is comprised of a group of developers who have worked in both the public and private sectors
with over $1 billion worth of mixed-use development
historic renovations and ground-up development in Detroit
The project builds on placemaking prioritization in the City of Ferndale, which became a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community in 2017.
“Walters Group is proud and excited to be a part of the vibrant Ferndale community,” said Walters Group CEO Matt Walters
“The Vester Flats mixed use project will provide new workforce housing that is much needed throughout the State of Michigan
This project is a testament of the public private partnership between the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
the Oakland County Housing Trust Fund and the City of Ferndale.”
“The City of Ferndale is excited to support this mixed-use
workforce housing project within our downtown corridor,” said City of Ferndale Community and Economic Development Director Roger Caruso
“This will make a real impact on people who want to live
and play in our city. It can’t go unmentioned that this project would not have come to fruition if it weren’t for the financial participation from Oakland County and the State of Michigan
particularly the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.”
In addition to the approved placemaking projects
the MSF Board voted in support of the following projects:
About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
SOUTHFIELD
– A family’s quest to find their missing daughter ended tragically over the weekend when police located her body
According to the family, April 5 is the last time anyone saw London Thomas, 17, while being dropped off at her boyfriend’s house in Inkster
Twenty-one days later, authorities found the Detroit teenager in a Southfield neighborhood
significant leads developed over the weekend
Detroit police and the FBI enlisted the help of Michigan State Police on Saturday
--> London Thomas case: 2 in custody in connection to missing Detroit teen’s death
On Sunday, Michigan State Police announced it had two suspects in custody, believed to be involved in her disappearance.
According to the Michigan State Police, no charges have been filed yet.
A resident of Inkster, Terry Pardon, expressed her sorrow about the situation and remembered how she used to be friends with the Detroit teen in her neighborhood.
“She’s just a beautiful girl – it’s just so heartbreaking,” Pardon said. “I thought they were going to find her alive.”
Search parties led to Westland, where the teenager’s phone last pinged.
Over the weekend, two major developments shifted the case, leading authorities to Southfield.
Authorities have searched the boyfriend’s home in Inkster at least twice. The investigation is described as “fluid.”
Once the investigation concludes, it will be handed over to the Wayne County Prosecutor for review.
On Monday (April 28), loved ones plan to hold a 7:45 p.m. candlelight balloon release in the Southfield neighborhood where police discovered Thomas’ body.
Shawnte Passmore joined WDIV in August 2024 after working at KOVR in Sacramento, California, WFSB in Hartford, Connecticut and KMTV in Omaha, Nebraska.
(WXYZ) — A family-owned supermarket in Southfield was destroyed overnight Tuesday in a fire
Related Video: Overnight fire destroys Plum Hollow Market in Southfield
with Southfield fire crews raising this to a three-alarm fire
Firefighters initially went inside to put out the flames
Related Video: Chopper 7 shows aftermath of fire at Plum Hollow Market
Those crews immediately called out of the building and began spraying from the outside
crews still doused flames as the building smoldered
Southfield Fire Battalion Chief Chris Smith says this being a grocery store means a lot of fuel for the fire to burn through
there’s a lot of combustibles in there and there's equipment
which led to a lot of heavy fire that we encountered," Smith said
"This market is a staple in our community and it’s been around for a long time."
We're told the other buildings in the complex
We spoke to the former owner over the phone
who sold the business to someone outside the family back in July
I spent most of my life in there,” says Bob Rinderknecht
When my dad would bring me when I was 5 years old to make shish kabobs all day long."
but fire investigators are looking into it
Community members say losing the market to a fire will hurt
“I find it kind of tragic that a resource like this was lost,” says Daniela Espinoza
It is a place for people to go to get the last ingredient for dinner
and I find it really sad that now that’s gone
and I have to go somewhere even further away.”
it will be 40 years in August of this year
and I’ve been coming to Plum Hollow Market ever since then,” says Patricia Cade
I don’t know what could have possibly happened
I hope they find out what happened because it’s just a great loss to me
Samantha Sayles
– Crews battled a fully engulfed fire in Southfield early Tuesday morning
Plum Hollow Market on 9 Mile at Lahser caught fire at around 1:15 a.m
Firefighters were able to extinguish the flames by 5:30 a.m
but are still working to put out hot spots throughout the building
According to Southfield Battalion Chief Christopher Smith
the fire started at the corner inside the building
Authorities said two attached businesses suffered smoke and water damage
The building directly behind the supermarket was not damaged
According to Plum Hollow Market’s website, it has served the local community for more than 50 years.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Hannah Music is an alumna of Oakland University and has been with Local 4 since March 2024.
Samantha Sayles is an Oakland University alumna who’s been writing Michigan news since 2022. Before joining the ClickOnDetroit team, she wrote stories for WILX in Lansing and WEYI in Flint.
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Family and friends gathered to remember 17-year-old London Thomas, who was found dead in Southfield
that light remains—clearly seen by every candle lit during this gathering held in her memory
Getting ready to graduate and something like this happens,” said London’s grandmother
The grief of Thomas’s death is emotionally crippling for the many people remember how smart she was
“I wanna remember her as my little baby girl
and I want everyone to remember when she was around,” Martin said
Many of them are now wearing shirts with the phrase “Justice for London” as they continue to hope that those responsible will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law
Until justice is reached, however, this family won’t stop fighting to show that Thomas’s life mattered.
“What happened to her should have never happened,” said Thomas’s other aunt, Katherine Moon.
“We’re a tight-knit family. Every day we’ve been together and we’re gonna try to stay together even after this,” Martin said.
We’re still waiting to determine who the two people arrested are and what their connection to this entire investigation is.
Victor Williams joined Local 4 News in October of 2019 after working for WOIO in Cleveland, OH, WLOX News in Biloxi, MS, and WBBJ in Jackson, TN. Victor developed a love for journalism after realizing he was a great speaker and writer at an early age.
(WXYZ) — The family of 17-year-old London Thomas is mourning after the Detroit teen’s body was found over the weekend
three weeks after she was reported missing
when she was dropped off at her 23-year-old boyfriend’s house in Inkster
Michigan State Police said her body was found Saturday evening in Southfield near 8 Mile and Telegraph roads
Related video: 2 suspects in custody after body of missing teen London Thomas found in Southfield
Neighbors said they watched as police discovered Thomas' body inside a white SUV parked in a neighbor's driveway
They say the SUV had been parked there for two weeks
a single mother and her three children live at the home where the SUV was parked
7 News Detroit rang the doorbell on the house
Related video: 'We knew nothing.' Family searches for 17-year-old London Thomas in Westland
Meanwhile, Thomas' family has launched a GoFundMe page to help cover her funeral expenses
“It’s the hardest thing ever,” Thomas’ grandmother Jestina Martin told 7 News Detroit
Martin said she last spoke with her granddaughter shortly before her disappearance
Watch our extended interview with London Thomas' grandmother Jestina Martin in the video player below:
Thomas' family had been actively searching for her since early April
law enforcement conducted a search of her boyfriend's home
Authorities have not publicly identified the suspects but confirmed that two people are currently in custody in connection with Thomas’ disappearance
Related video: London Thomas' boyfriend considered person of interest
Retired Detroit Police Department homicide Detective Bill Peterson told 7 News Detroit that the age gap between Thomas and her boyfriend raises concerns
“She’s a 17-year-old girl with a 23-year-old boyfriend,” Peterson said
“I want (the suspects) to do the most time they could ever see for killing my grandchild.”
A candlelight vigil for Thomas is scheduled for Monday at 7:30 p.m
near Millard Street and Sherman Avenue in Southfield
This story was reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI
Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy
Payton Ferrell was last seen at 11:30 a.m. on April 19, 2025, in the area of Lahser Road and Northwestern Highway in Southfield.
Police said she has been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. She is described as being 5′ tall, weighs 145 pounds, has brown eyes and waist-length red and black braids.
She was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, red t-shirt, black leggings, and white Nike shoes.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Southfield Police Department at 248-796-5500.
Southfield — Tiffany Patterson was still reeling Tuesday morning from the news that a fire ripped through the Plum Hollow market hours earlier
and I think that's why it's touching me like this," she said with tears in her eyes as she sat in a parking lot next to the store on the corner of Nine Mile and Lahser roads at about 8:30 a.m
Southfield firefighters were called to the store at about 1:06 a.m
Officials said they arrived about three minutes later and found fire and heavy smoke
They contained the fire but continued to put out hot spots as of 10 a.m.
Crews first tried an interior attack on the commercial fire but had to back out due to the flames and smoke
Southfield officials said they rang a third alarm fire and summoned their counterparts from Bloomfield Township
Madison Heights and West Bloomfield Township
City officials said the fire did not leave the store's building and only damaged the two attached structures
They also said the cause of the blaze is under investigation
The family-owned store's website says it has been in business for more than five decades and "a cornerstone of the Southfield community."
said she was shocked to hear about the fire
"And I feel so bad for the owner," she said
"He's been pouring his heart and soul into this store to make it better."
Patterson said a friend called her Tuesday morning to let her know what happened at the store
She said she has worked at the store twice
The first time was in 2012 and she most recently returned last August
"They groomed me for quality and for working with the public," Patterson said
She said the store means so much to so many people
"It's a family-oriented establishment," she said
It's reconnecting for people who hadn't seen each other in a while
Patterson said she hopes the market can be rebuilt and everything that makes it special returns
"I know something good has to come out of this," she said
The incident unfolded a week after a fire at a Farmington Hills home sent a dozen people
Last month, a woman died in a house fire in Commerce Township
– Police are seeking information about a 14-year-old girl who went missing in Southfield
Heaven Parks left her residence in Southfield voluntarily at 2:45 p.m
on Saturday (April 26) and hasn’t been seen since
Parks was last seen wearing a light gray New Balance hoodie with the letters “NB”
Anyone with information should contact the Southfield Police Department at 248-796-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak Up
All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. Click here to submit a tip online
READ: More Missing in Michigan coverage
Copyright 2021 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.
Brandon Carr is a digital content producer for ClickOnDetroit and has been with WDIV Local 4 since November 2021. Brandon is the 2015 Solomon Kinloch Humanitarian award recipient for Community Service.
The Michigan Strategic Fund Board has approved a Transformational Brownfield Plan incentive package to support a mixed-use redevelopment project in the Southfield City Centre with new housing
The $131.8 million fund package requested by the city of Southfield Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and developer Middlepointe Investment Group includes construction of a walkable
high-density mixed-use development with three multi-story
and one multi-story parking deck with ground-floor retail
The 8-acre vacant site is located at the northwest corner of Evergreen Road and Civic Center Drive (due west of Southfield City Hall)
42,665 square feet of retail and commercial space
The new development also includes two pocket parks and a pedestrian greenway connecting Southfield’s central park with development to the west
It is anticipated the overall project will create 100 full-time jobs and bring a total capital investment of $209.5 million
it’s a rebirth,” says Southfield Mayor Ken Siver
“The Middlepointe project will bring much-needed residential density
The Middlepointe development builds on placemaking efforts for the city of Southfield, which became a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community in 2016
“The long-awaited redevelopment of the Evergreen and Civic Center Roads intersection
considered the “Main and Main” of the Southfield City Centre District
marks a major milestone nearly two decades in the making,” says Fred Zorn
“Since the demolition of the outdated structure in 2009
this key corner has remained a visual and functional gap in the heart of the city
Middlepointe Investment Group stepped in to support the vision and had the commitment to transform this underutilized site into a vibrant
“This project represents a major investment in Southfield,” says Hassan Jawad
For more information, visit middlepointe.com/
the Michigan Strategic Fund on Tuesday approved a $4 million state backed loan for Vester Flats in Ferndale (141 Vester St.) for 72 apartments and street level commercial space
the Michigan Strategic Fund approved assistance for BAMF Health in Grand Rapids
including tax incentives and a $1.5-million performance-based grant as part of the Gratiot Life Science Innovation Building at I-375 and Gratiot Avenue that is being developed by Bedrock in Detroit
The 220,000-square-foot building on the failed jail site will include BAMF Health
Demolition of a former jail at the south end of the site is currently underway
A Southfield man was found guilty Wednesday of the 2021 death of his 8-year-old sister
the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office said
was convicted of first-degree murder by an Oakland County Circuit Court jury after a two-day trial
The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on May 27
Stribling's attorney was not immediately available for comment on Thursday
Authorities alleged the defendant shot his sister, Bailei Singleton
once in the head in January 2021 at their home
the Twelve North Apartments in the 25700 block of 12 Mile near Telegraph Road
Investigators said Stribling told police Bailei was shot during a robbery
but two other witnesses at the apartment told another story
They also said he allegedly tried to conceal evidence
Prosecutors said Wednesday that the defendant shot his sister because she was talking back to him in their home's living room
"Bailei Singleton should still be here with us today," Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said in a statement
could be murdered by a relative and in their own home over the slightest of disagreements," McDonald said
a reminder of how gun violence is a public health epidemic that can end a life in an instant."
Last month, a Madison Heights couple was sentenced to probation after their son got hold of one of their guns and shot himself in the hand last year
Also last month, a former Flat Rock police officer died and his wife was critically injured following a shooting police called "domestic related" at their home in Trenton
The same month, a person died and another was seriously injured in a shooting on Detroit's west side during a gun battle between friends and family
(WXYZ) — Two suspects have been arrested in an armed carjacking of a man at an apartment complex over the weekend in Southfield
Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said officers received a call around 4:40 a.m
about a Dodge Charger that had been taken at gunpoint at an apartment complex on 12 Mile Road near Telegraph Road
was able to compose himself and give a specific description of the suspects and the vehicles they were driving
Officers were in the area of the Lodge Freeway and Lahser Road when they observed a black Jeep and then the stolen Charger traveling at a high rate of speed
The black Jeep was reported stolen out of Detroit two days before
and the chase went down the Lodge into Detroit at speeds of around 125 mph
The suspects then went onto the Davison Freeway
and officers used a PIT maneuver to disable the Charger
WATCH: See dashcam and bodycam videos below
One suspect is a 17-year-old from Detroit charged with carjacking and carrying a concealed weapon
carrying a concealed weapon and fourth-degree fleeing and eluding
Detectives are still working to identify the driver of the Jeep
which was last seen near southbound Southfield Freeway near 8 Mile Road
Police say the suspects used the Jeep to locate
follow and target the vehicle and steal his car
for joining them and speaking to the media
"That courage was displayed the night of the incident," Barren said
"This young man had the ability to compose himself
give a specific description of the suspects
Watch: Hear more from the victim in the video below
He was delivering for DoorDash when it happened
and still made the delivery despite being carjacked
"I was just scared but happy that I'm alive," he said
Barren gave him a chief's challenge coin at the press conference for his courage
VIDEO: Watch the chief give him a challenge coin in the video below
Vesco Clean Energy in Southfield and EV Connect Inc
in California have formed a strategic alliance to expand and enhance electric vehicle charging infrastructure across Michigan and the greater Midwest
The goal of the alliance is to deliver a network of EV chargers catering to businesses
Customers will interact with a Vesconnect-branded management dashboard
while other drivers will continue using the EV Connect app to access charging stations
the maintenance and service experience will be simplified
allowing them to manage multiple fueling types through one comprehensive system
we’re focused on solving driver challenges that stand in the way of EV adoption
and charger reliability is at the top of that list,” says Lilly Epstein Stotland
future-ready charging network that meets the needs of site hosts and drivers alike
while helping our region build the confidence and infrastructure needed to support long-term EV growth.”
VCE will rebrand existing EV Connect stations throughout Michigan under VCE’s Vesconnect network
Outdated or underperforming chargers will be upgraded to enhance reliability
businesses need scalable solutions that deliver performance and value,” says Bassem Ammouri
VCE empowers its partners to confidently expand their charging networks
The collaboration also aligns with broader efforts to secure utility funding and government incentives to support EV charging infrastructure
With more than 300 chargers already deployed across Michigan using EV Connect software
the expanded network will significantly improve access to charging solutions
Vesco Clean Energy specializes in comprehensive battery management services
as well as electric vehicle charging solutions
The company has facilities in Grand Rapids and Saginaw
and offers tailored services for businesses
ranging from battery recycling and end-of-life management to the installation and maintenance of EV charging infrastructure
Vesco Clean Energy is an affiliate of Vesco Oil Corp
For more information, visit Vesco Clean Energy at vescocleanenergy.com. For EV Connect, visit evconnect.com/
today announced a new multi-year partnership to create a private-label credit card for Belle Tire customers
will offer financing options across all Belle Tire locations
will provide Belle Tire customers with access to flexible financing options for a wide range of automotive products and services
Cardholders can take advantage of six months of promotional financing on purchases of $199 or more
and 12 months of promotional financing on purchases of $1,000 or more
the Synchrony Car Care credit card can be used not only at Belle Tire locations but also at more than 1 million gas stations
Belle Tire customers can apply for Synchrony financing through multiple channels, including in-store pin pads, QR codes, text-to-apply options, and on BelleTire.com
using Synchrony’s prequalification and digital application solutions
we’re always looking for ways to provide our customers with the best possible experience
and this partnership with Synchrony allows us to offer even more financial flexibility,” says Don Barnes III
“With Synchrony’s proven expertise in consumer financing
our automotive customers will have greater access to convenient payment options
making it easier to keep their vehicles safe and road ready.”
its car care network offers a “comprehensive” solution for managing automotive expenses — including routine maintenance
and car rentals — at more than a 1 million locations nationwide
“Our partnership with Belle Tire reflects Synchrony’s commitment to providing seamless and accessible financing solutions for consumers managing essential automotive expenses,” says Curtis Howse
executive vice president and CEO of the Synchrony Home and Auto platform
“By integrating our financing tools with Belle Tire’s trusted services
we’re helping customers navigate both routine and unexpected vehicle costs with confidence and ease.”
Belle Tire has grown to nearly 200 locations across the Midwest
– Police are seeking information about a 12-year-old boy who went missing in Southfield
Jiovanni Lucket left his home on Monday (April 7) at 5 p.m
This story was updated with additional information
One person was hospitalized and another was arrested following a suspected drunken driving wrong-way crash over the weekend
The crash was reported about 12:15 a.m. Sunday in Detroit, according to the Michigan State Police.
Beforehand, 911 callers started reporting a wrong-way driver going north in the southbound lanes of Southfield Freeway, according to a post by the Michigan State Police on X
the social media platform formerly known as Twitter
State Police troopers started heading that way
but a head-on crash was then reported on the freeway near Joy Road
More: MSP records shed new light on controversial $999,999 legal settlement
More: Michigan State Police begins testing all-electric 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E
The driver suspected of causing the crash — a 39-year-old man from Eastpointe — was arrested at the scene and accused of driving drunk
Blood alcohol content results were not yet available on Monday
A passenger riding in the other vehicle — a 30-year-old Detroit woman — had a lower-body injury and was taken to a local hospital
Driving while under the influence is “unacceptable,” Shaw said in the X post
“This driver risked the lives of other drivers and road users when they got behind the wheel drunk,” Shaw said
“There are just too many ways to get around if you decide to drink.”
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Police are working to identify a pedestrian who was killed after being hit by multiple cars on Southfield Freeway late Monday night.
Michigan State Police said a man was walking on the right shoulder into the lanes of traffic on Southfield Freeway just south of the Lodge at around 11:15 p.m. on April 7 when he was hit by a car. The car pulled over right after the crash.
The man was then hit by several other cars on the freeway, and police said those drivers did not stop at the scene.
The man died at the scene, said Michigan State Police.
Authorities believe impairment was not a factor in the crash.
Michigan State Police said the man did not have identification on him and could not identify him after using a mobile fingerprint scanner.
“Troopers are continuing their investigation into the identity of the pedestrian,” said Michigan State Police F/Lt Mike Shaw. “We want to remind members of our community to not walk on the freeway or get out of their cars if your vehicle becomes disabled or you are in a crash. Stay in your vehicle and wear your seatbelt.”
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SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – A woman is facing charges after authorities discovered that her Southfield massage business had been providing sexual services to clients for a decade, officials announced.
Rhonda Hahn, 61, of Southfield, has been issued the state charges of prostitution/accepting earnings, engaging in a human trafficking enterprise causing injury and/or resulting in commercial sexual activity, and keeping a house of prostitution.
In addition to those state charges, she faces a local charge of having no massage establishment license.
She was given a $1,500 bond for the state charges and a $500 bond for the local charge.
On Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, Southfield Police and detectives with SEMTEC (the FBI’s Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crimes Task Force) executed a search warrant at Hahn’s massage business, Pressure Point Massage Therapy, at 17670 W. 12 Mile Road.
When the search warrant was conducted, Hahn was allegedly in the process of giving a client, identified as a Bloomfield Hills man, a massage, Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren announced during a press conference on Monday.
He told detectives that Hahn gave him a back massage while he was nude and then began touching his genitals.
The client told authorities that she stopped the moment they began searching the business.
An investigation revealed that payment was discussed before the massage, and they had agreed on a cost of $60 for 30 minutes or $80 for 60 minutes.
The client told detectives that he didn’t know about these services and that Hahn just started moving toward those actions. The chief doesn’t believe that but said there isn’t evidence for a case against him.
Detectives also interviewed a female employee who was at the business when they searched it.
She told authorities that she was a receptionist and denied providing sexual services to clients, but the investigation revealed that she had an active social media profile that advertised those services.
They discovered that she had just under $1,000 cash on her, and seized that, along with a cellphone.
The receptionist hasn’t been charged at this time, Barren said.
When authorities searched Hahn’s home, they found massage beds, tables, robes and towels which leads them to believe she also provided these illicit services at her home.
Hahn has been in the massage industry for over 25 years and during an interview she told investigators that her business started performing sexual acts on clients about 10 years ago.
She was licensed by the state, but her license to operate a business in the city of Southfield had expired. Pressure Point Massage Therapy has been shut down.
Hahn is expected to appear in court again on March 31.
You can watch the full press conference in the video below:
Sara Powers joined WDIV as a digital content producer in Oct. 2024 and has been covering Metro Detroit news since 2021.
– Police are seeking information about siblings who went missing in Southfield
Both siblings were last seen in Southfield on Monday (April 21) at 1:25 a.m
Christopher Young was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and black jogging pants
Heaven Parks was last seen wearing a green jacket and black pants
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts
Faith leaders, community organizers and civil rights advocates will rally outside of Southfield’s Target store tomorrow April 12, according to nonprofit organization Michigan United Action
Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts
The rally is in response to the Target Corporation reversing its commitment to diversity equity and inclusion measures
Target, which operates nearly 2,000 stores nationwide and employs more than 400,000 people
said it already had planned to end the racial program this year
The Trump administration has threatened to cut off funding to organizations and corporations like Target to put pressure on abandon DEI initiatives
Since Target’s decision to reverse course, the retailer has faced decreased stock prices and declining foot traffic
–Associated Press writer Anne D’Innocenzio contributed to this report
Do you have a community story we should tell
Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org
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SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – A Detroit man has been charged in connection with a fatal stabbing that happened outside a gas station in Southfield, officials announced.
Gregory Anthony Clark, 66, of Detroit, was charged with manslaughter, according to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office. He faces up to 15 years in prison.
The stabbing happened outside of a gas station at 8 Mile and Lahser on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
Clark is accused of stabbing the victim in the chest. The man was later pronounced dead at the hospital.
According to the prosecutor’s office, the victim’s family identified Clark as the suspect from video evidence and said that the two men were friends.
“Arguments happen,” said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “But the addition of a deadly weapon can turn an argument into a tragedy.”
Clark turned himself in to police on Wednesday, April 16, four days after the stabbing, the prosecutor’s office said.
– Police have made an arrest in connection to a deadly stabbing at a Southfield gas station parking lot
Previous coverage: Man killed in Southfield gas station stabbing, police say
Police said a man was found stabbed and bleeding at a gas station at 22000 8 Mile Road in Southfield at around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
He was taken to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Southfield police said Wednesday morning that they have made an arrest regarding the deadly stabbing but will provide an update “at an appropriate time” after the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office makes a charging decision.
A successful Southfield nightclub owned by former Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Chief Financial Officer William Smith is being sold and a federal judge Wednesday approved putting the money in an account so it can be given eventually to the conservancy
a nonprofit victimized in one of the largest criminal schemes in Detroit history
The sale of Duo Restaurant and Lounge's assets for $155,000 includes liquor licenses
and equipment not owned by the landlord at a nightclub that was one of the most prolific liquor-selling locations in Michigan
until Smith was arrested last year and accused of stealing at least $44.3 million from the conservancy during a prolonged scam that robbed the nonprofit of money that was supposed to revitalize Detroit's industrial riverfront
District Judge Susan DeClercq approved putting in escrow money from the sale to an undisclosed buyer until the end of the criminal case
minus taxes and assessments owed by Smith's company
Marshals Service and are expected to be given to the conservancy
Craig Welkener wrote in an earlier court filing
More: Feds reveal luxury items seized from ex-Detroit Riverfront Conservancy CFO William Smith
“Since the vast majority of the real property is saddled with high-dollar mortgages
the government may do well to recoup $2-3 million in equity value from all of the seized assets
even after defeating any claims by third parties and selling the assets on the market,” the prosecutor wrote
Prosecutors recommended the judge approve the sale
“We welcome all efforts to reclaim money stolen from the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy," conservancy CEO Ryan Sullivan said in a statement to The Detroit News
The nightclub was in a plaza along Northwestern Highway
tucked between a comedy club and Woof Woof
state records show Duo sold more liquor ($868,051) than almost every other bar
restaurant or concert venue in Michigan in 2023
except Little Caesars Arena ($1,186,551) and the Detroit sports bar Brass Rail ($880,894)
according to Michigan Liquor Control Commission sales data
has stopped and Duo has been shuttered amid the scandal emerged one year ago
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission suspended the nightclub's liquor license
a move triggered when a venue "fails to keep liquor liability insurance active," commission spokeswoman Abby Rubley told The Detroit News
The nightclub is the latest asset unloaded since Smith pleaded guilty late last year
Last month, DeClercq approved the sale of a nearly $700,000 townhouse in Georgia purchased by Smith. And a court filing in October indicated Smith had a deal to sell a party store in Idlewild — Michigan's "Black Eden" — for $77,827
has played a key role in Detroit since the city emerged from the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S
helping to provide greater access to Detroit's international riverfront and working to redevelop a more than five-mile stretch from the Ambassador Bridge almost to Belle Isle
Smith is scheduled to be sentenced April 24 and faces up to 20 years in federal prison
He pleaded guilty in November to one count each of wire fraud and money laundering six months after conservancy officials placed him on leave and disclosed an investigation into financial mismanagement that was being handled by the Michigan State Police and
The eventual criminal case exposed lax oversight by regional power brokers at a nonprofit overseen by some of the area's most powerful business leaders and bankrolled by southeast Michigan's leading philanthropies
Officials recently dropped plans to build a temporary RiverWalk path that would have linked the eastern and western parts of the trail due to “challenges associated with the fraud disclosed earlier this year."
Smith routinely used the conservancy’s money to pay off American Express charges that he and several relatives incurred buying furniture
That totaled $15.6 million in American Express charges
Smith used approximately $14.9 million in conservancy money to pay for those charges
Smith also was accused of wiring $24.4 million from a conservancy account to one of his companies
Other allegations contended that Smith tried to cover up the fraud by taking out a $5 million line of credit with Citizens Bank on behalf of the conservancy
falsifying the signature of the conservancy's board secretary and depositing the money into the nonprofit’s accounts
Southfield police said Wednesday they have arrested a suspect in a fatal weekend stabbing
"The Southfield Police Department has made an arrest regarding the homicide that occurred on Saturday," officials said in a statement
"(Southfield Police) Chief (Elvin) Barren will provide an update at the appropriate time after a charging decision has been made by the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office."
Officials with the county prosecutor's office said Wednesday that a decision has not yet been made on charges in connection with the incident
Police said the stabbing happened at a BP gas station at 22000 West Eight Mile Road
Officers were called to the business at about 9:30 p.m
Police have not released the victim's identity but said he knew the suspect
Anyone with information about the incident should call the Southfield Police Department at (248) 796-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP
The incident is most recent involving a stabbing
Last month, two teenagers were arrested for allegedly stabbing a 16-year-old girl in Dearborn
Also last month, a Macomb County prison inmate pleaded no contest to charges for stabbing his cellmate to death in 2022
In February, a man was arrested after allegedly stabbing a man several times in a Redford Township parking lot
(WXYZ) — Metro Detroit dog lovers will soon have another place to take their pups
A new dog park is set to open in Southfield this summer
announced it’s opening another location at 15640 West Eleven Mile Road
Related Video: Barkside opens on Detroit's east side
Barkside Southfield will feature 6,000 square feet of indoor play space and 7,000 square feet of outdoor space
offering an experience “for dogs and their humans
“Our vision for Barkside has always been about more than just a bar or a dog park
It’s about creating a place where dog lovers and dogs can safely socialize
and have fun,” said founders Cody Williams and David Oh in a press release
“Southfield’s central location makes it the perfect spot to bring Barkside’s unique concept and strong sense of community to even more Metro Detroit dog lovers.”
Barkside said the outdoor space will be fully fenced with dog-friendly mulch and drainage in the event of rain
There will also reportedly be dedicated indoor and outdoor play areas specially designed for small dogs
The bar’s menu will reportedly include Michigan-made beer
For more information on Barkside, click here.
An extremely dog-friendly safe place in Detroit
Detroit’s first dog park with a beer garden
announced plans Wednesday for a Southfield location
11 Mile Road builds on the success of Barkside in Detroit
which opened in the West Village neighborhood in 2023
and have fun,” said founders Cody Williams and David Oh in a news release
Areas for dogs to roam around and play include 6,000 square feet of indoor
off-leash play space plus 7,000 square feet of fenced-in outdoor space
Barkside’s outdoor play area features dog-friendly mulch and drainage rock
Its inside space is a weatherproofed playground area for dogs
Barkside Southfield will have a dedicated indoor and outdoor play area designed specifically for them
big-screen televisions and a bar offering Michigan-made beer
More: Live updates: RFK Jr. faces opposition from senators in fiery confirmation hearing
More: Michigan students' scores stagnate in newly released national assessment
and spaces to host dog birthday parties and gotcha day celebrations
A monthly membership is $40 that offers unlimited visits per month and the option of adding a second dog for $15 per month
Annual memberships are $375 for unlimited visits plus discounts and member-only events and the option of adding a second dog for $50 per month
Day passes are $10 during the week and $15 on the weekends
all dogs must be at least 6 months old and up to date on vaccinations
all dogs 12 months and up are required to be spayed or neutered
got the idea from their business backgrounds and passion for dogs
“Barkside was inspired by the love for our own dogs and the desire to create a community for dog lovers,” said Oh
“We’re excited to bring this vision to Southfield and beyond.”
the owners said plans are underway for expanding in metro Detroit and Ann Arbor
Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter. Subscribe to the Free Press
(WXYZ) — A man is facing several charges after allegedly carjacking a person at gunpoint near Negaunee Street and leading Southfield police on a high-speed chase early Friday morning
New video from police shows the moment 19-year-old Hubbie Marion II began running on foot before he was hit by a squad car and arrested
Bodycam video shows Southfield arrest of carjacking suspect:
Police said the 25-minute pursuit started as an armed carjacking Friday around 9 a.m
Linda Roberts said it happened right across the street from her home
It could've been me and that's what you have to always remember
I'm always running out somewhere," Roberts said
She said she has lived on Negaunee Street for 20 years and nothing like this has ever happened before
Dashcam video shows Southfield chase of carjacking suspect
Police Chief Elvin Barren said this sort of crime is rare in Southfield
You all know I hold people accountable in this police department and when they deviate from policy and they make a decision
causing him to do exactly what the intention was
ultimately the community and police officers could've been affected as well," Barren said
Second angle: Dashcam video shows Southfield chase of carjacking suspect
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald emphasized the safety of the community and she added a message to the public
If you leave your vehicle or something like a vehicle of great value open
unlocked and don't take necessary care — your door should be locked
There are things you can do and you must do to keep yourself safe," McDonald said
Marion is facing a slew of charges including carjacking and running from police
– A verbal argument between a gas station clerk and a customer escalated into an exchange of gunfire in Southfield
The incident occurred on Tuesday (April 1) at 7:24 p.m
at the Shell Gas Station located at 24839 Greenfield Road
but the customer and the clerk were arrested
but anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Southfield Police Department at (248)-796-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak-Up
All tips to Crime Stoppers are anonymous. Click here to submit a tip online.
A 28-year-old Southfield man has been charged in the slaying of a transgender sex worker last weekend
Robert Louis Ridges III was arraigned Wednesday in 46th District Court in Southfield on charges of second-degree murder
and using a firearm during the commission of a felony
Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said a judge ordered Ridges to be held at the Oakland County Jail without bail and scheduled his next court hearing for Feb
Barren made the remarks Wednesday during a noon news conference about the case
Broom was born a man but identified and presented as a woman
"I spoke to Jamal's mother," the chief said
she was emotional after losing a child in such a violent and gruesome manner
I made her promise that I would refer to her daughter by the appropriate pronouns 'she' and 'her' in my remarks."
He also said he promised Broom's mother that even though her daughter's job was not legal
this shouldn't have happened," the chief said
Ridges faces up to life in prison for the second-degree murder charge
up to five years for carrying a concealed weapon
and up to two years for the firearm felony charge
Court records on Wednesday did not list an attorney for Ridges
police played the 911 call they received about the shooting as well as officer body cam video of Ridges' arrest at the MGM Grand Casino in Detroit
The chief said investigators received information Ridges was at the casino and officers entered the building behind him
"We believe he was attempting to blend in back into society after committing such a heinous crime," Barren said
adding police had him in custody about 11 hours after the shooting
Barren also thanked his department's officers
and the Detroit Police Department for their help on the case
On Monday, police said a 28-year-old Southfield man was arrested in connection with a fatal shooting
Authorities said police and medics were called at about 10:14 a.m. Sunday to an apartment complex's parking lot in the 25000 block of Shiawassee Street near Eight Mile and Beech roads for a report of an unresponsive person lying on the pavement
They arrived and found one person with a gunshot wound on the head
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene
Barren said officers arrived and immediately began life-saving measures but the victim had no pulse
Authorities said they found a single spent 9mm shell casing
the victim's Ohio driver's license and a damaged cell phone in the snow near the crime scene
Investigators said the suspect in the shooting fled and was described as a 6-foot-tall male with a beard wearing a black hat
They also said they believe the suspect and victim knew each other
Barren said Wednesday the caller told dispatchers a woman had been shot and a man with a light complexion ran from the scene
Officers later found the SUV about 400 feet from the scene of the shooting at another building in the apartment complex
Detectives learned the shooting suspect lives in that building
Detectives also learned the suspect made about 33 phone calls to various sex workers — all Black women and transgender people — before the shooting
Ridges allegedly told police "that he acted alone and claimed he did not know Broom was a member of the transgender community," Barren said
The chief also noted that Ridges does not have a criminal record
After police executed a search warrant at Ridges' home
they recovered a stolen Sig Sauer 9mm handgun from his bedroom as well as ammunition
They said the weapon was reported stolen in Georgia on July 23
investigations said analysis of the weapon by the Detroit Police Department determined the gun was a match to the one used in Broom's killing
Anyone with information about the shooting or the suspect should call the Southfield Police Department at (248) 796-5500 or Crime Stoppers of Michigan at 1-800-SPEAK-UP
Barren said homicides in Southfield are rare with the city averaging about two per year
The incident follows other fatal shootings in the region
A Macomb County man accused of fatally shooting another man and holding police at bay for hours on Feb
1 is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday
Last month, police found a man's body at a Port Huron home with multiple gunshot wounds
Also in January, a 34-year-old Detroit man was charged in his girlfriend's fatal shooting on the city's west side
(WXYZ) — Francine Williams is the proud owner of the Williams Healthcare Training Center in Southfield
"But you go by the name of Nurse Fran?" I asked
A Black-owned business that trains Home Health Aides and teaches CPR
but the biggest thing that Fran takes pride in is the Center's Certified Nursing Assistant program
"They are so essential because they are at the bedside," said Fran
"You've been a CNA for 4 years and a registered nurse for 12 years; how did you even come to this point?" I asked
I've seen so many adequacies with some of the CNAs
And it was due to lack of skills and lack of training," Fran said
"Is there a shortage right now for CNAs?" I asked
"Aside from there being a national shortage
It's projected that nearly 20,000 positions will open within the next few years
And that's simply due to the aging population
And the CNAs currently in the field are leaving to pursue other careers such as nursing," Fran said
That's why Fran is on a mission: to help aspiring CNAs
37-year-old Brittni Johnson has always wanted to be a caregiver
"Being able to pay for it was a lot of it," Brittni said
After working in the restaurant industry for 15 years
the mom of five can finally turn her dream into reality
"How do you think this is going to change your life?" I asked
"I think it's going to open up doors for my family to see that it's never too late to learn more about things that you are passionate about," Brittni said
"Your family must be really proud of you," I mentioned
"Who is your biggest fan?" I followed up with
And I'm grateful to her for opening up this chance," Brittni said
"I can relate with that because that's life
Not everyone is born with the funds and opportunities for what they want to do," Fran said
Fran encouraged Brittni to apply for the Center's scholarship
there have obviously been times in my personal life where I'm like
As the Center continues giving back to the community
"My next goal is to create a licensed Licensed Practical Nurse program
which would be the next step for CNAs," said Fran
Fran and Brittni's message is simple: it's never too late to accomplish your dreams
Fran says she is willing to work with anyone who steps through the Center's door to kick start their caregiving journey
To learn more, head to this website
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – A man has died after he was stabbed and found bleeding in the parking lot of a Southfield gas station, according to police.
The man was found at around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at a gas station at 22000 8 Mile Road in Southfield.
Police were called to the area by a witness who reported seeing a man bleeding. When officers arrived, they found the man had been stabbed. He was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police said they believe the suspect is known to the victim and that there is no additional threat to the public.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Southfield Police Department at 248-796-5500 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAKUP.
Kayla is a Web Producer for ClickOnDetroit. Before she joined the team in 2018 she worked at WILX in Lansing as a digital producer.
SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Police are searching for a 14-year-old girl who is missing out of Southfield.
Alaura Jade Brooks was last seen leaving her home in Southfield at 1:50 a.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025. She got into a black Infinity that is believed to be a ride share service.
She is described as being 5′2′' tall, weighs 120 pounds, herhair is styled in black braids, and she has brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black coat, grey leggings, and black Crocs.
A Southfield hotel employee has been charged in connection with a human trafficking case
marking the first time Oakland County prosecutors say they have sought to hold hotel employees accountable for their role in such activity
was charged in February with human trafficking enterprise
who does not have an attorney listed in court records
allegedly embezzled less than $200 from Sonesta Simply Suites in Southfield and maintained hotel rooms that were frequented by people using drugs
is charged with human trafficking enterprise
procuring a person for forced commercial sexual activity
two counts of transporting a person for prostitution
assault with the intent to do great bodily harm less than murder
conspiracy to deliver or manufacture drugs
is charged with human trafficking enterprise and conspiracy to deliver or manufacture drugs from March to October 2024
More: Metro Detroit authorities zero in on a common but elusive crime
This is the first time Oakland County prosecutors have charged a hotel clerk with human trafficking
who heads up the department's trafficking division
"It's not uncommon that we find that hotel clerks are involved to some extent
I've had cases where clerks have been paid by the trafficker to not cooperate with law enforcement," Brown said
"We've had clerks who actually have cooperated
who will call law enforcement to say 'we think somebody's being trafficked.' I'm not trying to say it happens at every hotel
Assistant Prosecutor Jason DeSantis said some of Fulgiam's texts with Rackard involved instructions about booking rooms and payments
Prosecutors and police learned of one of the women being trafficked during their investigation and prosecution of another trafficking case from Auburn Hills
Oakland County Sheriff's Office Detective Sgt
Matthew Peschke wrote in a search warrant affidavit
A Southfield police officer also learned of it during an interview with Fulgiam about the making of crack cocaine
Fulgiam allegedly had told Detective Matthew Fair about drugs and prostitution at Southfield hotels
"Fulgiam discusses his role in the prostitution of the girls
and the muscle," Peschke wrote in the search warrant affidavit
the prosecutor's office hopes to look at charging "johns" — the men who pay for sex — who often may know a woman is being trafficked and continue to pay traffickers
so if people start realizing there's some accountability from the ground up
it's not just the traffickers that we should hold accountable or hotel clerks ..
"Because if we didn't have people demanding it
a john gave them a video he had taken of a woman who was intoxicated to the point where she was "basically a rag doll" and her body was wracked with injuries
the circumstances are such that you have to be aware that something is not right
"You just can't argue that you didn't know."
Not all hotel clerks are complicit in trafficking
She's seen some cases where clerks kept logs of unusual things they noticed and handed them over to police
But the incentive for helping traffickers is often money
"When you have somebody who's not making a lot of money
if a trafficker says 'I'll give you $500 because I'm going to be here for a week,' and keep your mouth shut
that's a lot of money for somebody who might be making minimum wage or just a little bit above that," Brown said
"So that's a big incentive for them to not say anything or turn a blind eye to it."
(WXYZ) — A Southfield man has been charged with murdering a transgender woman and sex worker over the weekend
carrying a concealed weapon and felony firearm in the case
Related video: Bodycam shows suspect arrest in murder of transgender woman
Prosecutors say Ridges met Broom through a commercial sex advertisement and met up on Sunday
“Every person is entitled to live without fear of violence,” Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said in a statement
“Tahiry Broom had family and friends who loved her
She did not deserve to die and her killer will be brought to justice.”
Watch below: Report from Sunday after Broom's body was found in the complex
Advocate Jeynce Poindexter said there's danger in the growing negative rhetoric regarding the trans community:
"What continues to happen is by the trans community being labeled as the other and constantly ostracized
it allows for victimization to creep in at every angle ..
Southfield — Friends and family of a Detroit teen gathered Monday evening near the Southfield home where they said her decomposing body was found Saturday
released balloons and demanded "justice for London."
The body of 17-year-old London Thomas was found Saturday
She last had been seen April 5 and was reported missing April 8
"She loved everybody and everybody loved her."
State police said two people believed to be involved in her disappearance were in custody but no charges have been announced
Family members said authorities told them Thomas was found in an SUV parked near a home along Millard Street
Monday's vigil took place just a few homes away
at the corner of Millard and Sherman Avenue
Family members said they are unsure whether anyone who lives at the residence may have been involved in the teen's death
urged prosecutors to bring the harshest charges possible
She also questioned why the Southfield resident who lives where her niece's body was found hadn't called police about the SUV
which had apparently been sitting outside the home for weeks
Family members said Thomas was last seen alive on April 5 when she was dropped off at her boyfriend's house in Inkster
Martin said her granddaughter was a "good kid" who had worked at fast food restaurants since she was 14 years old
She had hoped to one day have a career as a hairdresser
"She pretty much learned to do hair by doing Grandma's hair and other people's hair," Martin said
The Detroit Police Department said officers had searched "numerous locations" in Metro Detroit
before officers with MSP Second District Special Investigation Services found Thomas' body in Southfield
Martin said the teen was identified by dental records
"I'm just glad that somebody found her and we got her back
even though she was deceased," Martin said
@max_detroitnews
A Southfield man convicted of defrauding state unemployment insurance agencies of $6.3 million during the COVID-19 pandemic has been sentenced
Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan Julie Beck said in a statement
Howard
and four co-defendants were charged in 2023 for their roles in a multi-million-dollar unemployment insurance fraud scheme
"Kenny Howard III and his co-conspirators engaged in a scheme to defraud multiple state workforce agencies by filing for unemployment insurance in the names of identity theft victims who were not entitled to such benefits," Megan Howell
"Today’s sentencing affirms the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice those who exploit U.S
Howard's attorney was not immediately available for comment on Friday
Authorities alleged Howard and his co-conspirators filed more than 700 unemployment insurance claims across Michigan
California and three other states between April 2020 and August 2021
Investigators said once the claims were processed
funds were loaded onto pre-paid debit cards and mailed to addresses controlled by the defendants
Officials said about 60% of the scheme’s fraudulent claims were successful
stealing $6,336,575 from state unemployment insurance agencies
They said if all of the fraudulent claims were granted
those agencies would have lost more than $11 million
has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing
And the case against the fourth co-defendant
but the prosecutions of those who took advantage of government programs during the pandemic are not," Beck said in a statement
"This office continues — and will continue — to hold those responsible for these fraudulent schemes accountable for their actions
and today’s sentence is evidence of that important work."
Howard's sentencing is the latest example of a Michigan resident being accused of defrauding the government of COVID-19 relief funds
Earlier this week
the owners of an historic and private Detroit social club agreed to pay more than $357,000 to settle a federal complaint over alleged COVID-19 loan fraud
Last week
a Detroit man accused of being part of a scheme involving $14 million in federal COVID-19 relief loans pleaded guilty in federal court in Pennsylvania
In November
an Ann Arbor woman pleaded guilty to stealing more than $41,000 in COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program loans
a global digital solutions provider which has its North American headquarters in Southfield
has announced the acquisition of a 60 percent stake in Escala 24×7
a computer support and services firm in Florida with a major presence in several Latin American countries
The move is designed to enable Stefanini to expand its cloud computing offerings
and capitalize on the rapidly developing cloud market in the region
Escala 24×7 expects to garner $100 million in revenue in 2025
“This investment — one of the largest in Stefanini’s history — underscores our aggressive growth strategy focused on cloud
cybersecurity and artificial intelligence,” says Marco Stefanini
“Bringing Escala 24×7 into our group will significantly accelerate the delivery of new AWS (Amazon Web Services) cloud projects in Latin America
a region where both companies have a strong presence
Their deep AWS focus and expertise perfectly complements our existing capabilities
allowing us to provide even greater value for our clients.”
Combining Stefanini’s global reach and comprehensive digital transformation capabilities with Escala 24×7’s leading AWS expertise is expected to provide client organizations with a “powerful” end-to-end solution for their cloud needs
will offer clients greater expertise on AWS cloud journeys
reducing operational costs through optimization
and ensuring the highest levels of security and compliance
Escala 24×7’s clients also will have simplified access to Stefanini’s comprehensive suite of technology solutions powered by more than 14 years of experience with generative AI
“We are thrilled to join forces with Stefanini group
deepen our services and offerings to current and future customers in Latin America
as we seek to leverage Stefanini’s extensive client network,” says Alejandro Planas
“Only 25 percent enterprise data is currently in the cloud
and the synergy between our companies will create a compelling and competitive offering
enabling us to scale and improve our service to clients in their cloud transformation journeys with the strong endorsement of Stefanini.”
The companies say the collaboration will provide a unified approach to cloud transformation
backed by a team of more than 250 cloud experts
The founders of Escala 24×7 will continue to lead the organization alongside their executive team as the brand integrates into the Stefanini portfolio
Escala 24×7 first will begin to serve Stefanini’s existing client base in Latin America
followed by plans to become Stefanini’s global platform for AWS cloud services
For more information, visit stefanini.com and escala24x7.com
The deal is subject to customary closing conditions
(WXYZ) — A Southfield gas station clerk and a customer were both arrested after police say they exchanged gunfire Tuesday evening
at the Shell gas station on Greenfield Road near 10 Mile Road
Police say the clerk and customer got into a verbal argument before firing gunshots
Both the clerk and customer were taken into custody
Police said there’s no threat to the public
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Southfield Police Department at 248-796-5500
A Southfield man plans to share wealth after recently winning a $2-million Powerball prize
Ralph Davis, 74, purchased a ticket that matched the five white balls drawn Jan. 18 — 14, 31, 35, 64 and 69. He won a $1 million prize that was multiplied to $2 million since the ticket had the Power Play option, according to the Michigan Lottery
He purchased his ticket at Sage Beer and Wine located at 3008 Greenfield Road in Royal Oak
"I always buy my Powerball ticket at the same store," Davis told the Michigan Lottery
When she said to me: ‘We won the Lottery!’ I was thinking we’d won $50 or something
More: Where the biggest Michigan Lottery prizes in February were sold
"I was floored and must have looked at the ticket 30 times to be sure we were seeing it correctly
We can give more to charities and share this with the people who mean the most to us."
also plans to share the money with his family.