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DeWitt Officer Charged in Altercation with Newspaper Delivery Driver

LANSING - An off-duty DeWitt police officer who followed a man delivering newspapers in his neighborhood now faces felony charges, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced today.

On Jan. 14, 2021, shortly after 7 a.m., Chad Vorce twice drew his firearm while off duty - and outside of his jurisdiction - after approaching a van he described as driving erratically in his neighborhood. The van was being driven by a Black man who was delivering newspapers.

Vorce followed the van out of the neighborhood, which is west of Airport Road roughly a mile north of I-69. The first time he drew his weapon was on Airport Road, and then a second time in a gas station parking lot where the man eventually stopped.

On-duty law enforcement from both DeWitt police and Michigan State Police ultimately arrived on scene at the gas station.

The Department of Attorney General was asked to review the case in Jan. 2022. After thorough review, Vorce is charged with the following in Clinton County's 65A District Court:

  • assault with a dangerous weapon (felonious assault), a felony punishable by up to 4 years in prison and/or $2,000;
  • weapons - felony firearm, a felony punishable by two years consecutively with and preceding any term of imprisonment imposed for the felony or attempted felony conviction; and
  • misconduct in office, a felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or $10,000.

"Our assessment of this incident showed dangerous behavior exhibited by Mr. Vorce," Nessel said. "Those who swear to protect and serve must do so responsibly. We will not hesitate to hold accountable those who violate that oath."

Vorce was arraigned Thursday afternoon.

A preliminary exam is scheduled for April 28 at 2 p.m. in front of Judge Michael E. Clarizio in the 65A District Court.

Questions related to Vorce's employment status should be directed to the DeWitt Police Department.

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Please note: A criminal charge is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The Department does not provide booking photos.

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