BOPC Chair Bell Statement on the passing of US Circuit Court Senior Judge Damon Keith

Chairman Willie E. Bell of the Detroit Board of Police Commissioners issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. Circuit Court Senior Judge Damon Keith:

“Detroit lost a great champion for civil rights and justice today with the passing of Judge Damon Keith. Many of us on the Board of Police Commissioners had the privilege of knowing Judge Keith or crossing paths with him over the years as we worked on civil rights
and on the accountability of our government and government officials, including police officers. In fact, he educated or inspired many of the people active in this work.

We were honored when Judge Keith swore in board members in 2018. Just recently, he agreed to serve as an honorary host for Detroit’s 45th Anniversary of Civilian Oversight as we mark both the first meeting of the board of police commissioners in 1974 and the first time our city is hosting the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement conference. He felt it important to give his support because, at 96, he remained active and engaged in the unending work of protecting rights and ensuring justice.

This city and this nation were very fortunate to have him, and he will be deeply missed. Our gratitude goes to his family and friends for sharing this remarkable man with us, and we offer condolences and prayers to his family.”