FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Michigan State Police Troopers File Malicious Prosecution Lawsuit Following Wrongful Criminal Charges
Lansing, MI – 9/24/24 – Cody Lukas and Justin Simpson, two Michigan State Police (MSP) troopers, have filed a verified complaint in Eaton County Circuit Court against Lt. Col. Aimee Brimacombe of the Michigan State Police. The lawsuit alleges malicious prosecution, abuse of power, and political interference following a criminal investigation initiated by Brimacombe that led to the troopers’ wrongful suspension and charges.
The complaint, filed by attorney Patrick William O’Keefe of O’Keefe Law, PLLC, asserts that Lt. Col. Brimacombe, in her capacity as head of MSP’s Risk Management Section, initiated a secret investigation into Troopers Lukas and Simpson based on unsubstantiated claims of misconduct. The charges stemmed from the arrest of a non-compliant suspect, Jacob Long, on August 24, 2022. Despite the initial internal investigation finding no grounds for criminal charges, Brimacombe allegedly pressured the Shiawassee County Prosecutor to issue charges.
According to the lawsuit, Brimacombe had personal ties to the suspect’s sister and used her influence to manipulate the investigation, leading to the troopers being charged with misconduct and assault. Both troopers were suspended pending the outcome of the charges—Lukas without pay and Simpson with pay—causing significant emotional and financial hardship.
“These troopers were doing their jobs, enforcing the law, and protecting the public. Instead, they were dragged through a baseless criminal prosecution because of one individual’s misuse of power and personal connections,” said O’Keefe.
On July 10, 2023, all criminal charges were dismissed, and the lawsuit now seeks accountability for the damage inflicted on Lukas and Simpson’s careers and reputations. The complaint further details that Brimacombe, recently promoted to Deputy Director of MSP, played a key role in negotiating a $1 million settlement to the suspect in a related civil lawsuit, an act the plaintiffs argue was meant to deflect attention from Brimacombe’s misconduct and further tarnish their reputations.
The plaintiffs seek damages for emotional distress, loss of income, and damage to their personal and professional reputations. “This case highlights a deeply troubling abuse of power within the MSP, and we are committed to ensuring that justice is served,” added O’Keefe.
About O’Keefe Law, PLLC
O’Keefe Law is a Lansing-based firm specializing in criminal defense, civil rights litigation, and employment law. With a dedicated team of experienced attorneys, the firm is committed to defending the rights of individuals and professionals across Michigan.
For more information, contact Patrick William O’Keefe at dpatrick@okeefelaw.net or (517) 253-0114.