Detroit Police Officer Matthew Jackson appeared in a virtual court hearing without proper attire on October 27, 2025, from Detroit, Michigan. The incident occurred in the 36th District Court via Zoom during a hearing concerning charges of reckless driving and public intoxication. Judge Sean Perkins paused the proceedings to address the officer’s lack of pants. The Detroit Police Department (DPD) subsequently issued an apology and initiated an internal review regarding the apparent violation of professional standards for virtual court appearances.
Story Highlights
- Detroit Police Officer Matthew Jackson appeared in a virtual court hearing wearing only his uniform shirt and underwear.
- This happened in the 36th District Court in Detroit, Michigan, via Zoom on October 27, 2025.
- The Detroit Police Department issued an apology and announced an internal review.
On October 27, 2025, Detroit Police Officer Matthew Jackson participated in a Zoom hearing before Judge Sean Perkins in the 36th District Court. Officer Jackson was visible on camera wearing his police uniform shirt but was not wearing pants. Judge Perkins addressed the matter directly, asking, “You got some pants on, officer?” The officer acknowledged he was not wearing pants and quickly adjusted his camera to obscure his lower body. The appearance took place during a hearing related to reckless driving and public intoxication charges.
The 36th District Court requires all participants in virtual hearings to adhere to a dress code mandating business attire and explicitly prohibiting casual clothing. Attorney TaTaNisha Reed, present for the hearing, noted the conduct was unprofessional and could negatively affect public perception of legal institutions and law enforcement representatives.Department Response and Internal Review
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison issued a formal statement regarding the incident, stating that Officer Jackson’s actions were “not representative of the professionalism of this department.” The chief’s apology was extended to court officials and attendees, and he pledged appropriate internal action to maintain public confidence. The department’s reaction has prompted discussion about training and oversight for virtual court appearances, which have become a standard practice since the beginning of the pandemic.
Chief Judge William McConico commented that Officer Jackson was typically known for his professional conduct, which made the occurrence unexpected to court officials. This has raised questions about the challenges law enforcement agencies face in maintaining consistent professional standards across remote work environments.
The incident has drawn public attention across digital platforms. As the DPD conducts its internal review, the matter remains part of the broader national conversation concerning law enforcement accountability and adherence to professional standards during official proceedings.
Watch the report: Got some pants on, officer?’: Judge surprised to see pantless Detroit cop during court
Sources:
Judge surprised when Mich. officer attends Zoom hearing without pants – Police1
Detroit police officer caught on Zoom court hearing with no pants – Fox 2 Detroit
