Resident recounts repeated traffic stops; Ann Arbor police cite driving-equality ordinance and training reforms

At the Independent Community Police Oversight Commission’s Memorial Social Justice Symposium, resident Antoine Bailey described repeated traffic stops in Ann Arbor that he says have persisted since he was 18 and have imposed substantial costs.

"I feel as if I'm getting stopped for being black and being in the suburbs," Bailey said, adding that he has "probably spent about a quart million dollars between like tickets, impounds, jail fees." His account drew sympathy from the panel; Chief Andre Anderson and department lieutenants described policy changes intended to reduce harm from enforcement.

Panelists pointed to a recent local policy change the chief credited with reducing severe traffic outcomes: a driving-equality ordinance adopted May 20 of the previous year. Anderson told the audience, "We've had zero fatalities in one year since we put that ordinance in place." He said the ordinance, combined with departmental policy that officers now introduce themselves and explain the reason for a stop, is part of a broader move to reduce unjustified stops and restore trust.

During the Q&A, Lieutenant Janette emphasized recruiting and fostering officers who demonstrate a service orientation. "If they don't have the mindset, you either change your mindset or you can't be here," she said, arguing that cultural change begins at hiring and training.

Speakers also discussed concrete steps the city and department can take: expand data collection to measure outcomes, invest in harm-reduction and reentry programs for people affected by enforcement, and institute clear notification and oversight protocols so commissioners and community members can track progress. Chief Anderson said the department provided the commission a draft notification protocol and highlighted ongoing training on use-of-force, de‑escalation and constitutional policing.

The commission concluded the evening by thanking community partners and urging residents to apply to serve on oversight committees. Unanswered audience questions were to receive follow-up after the event.