For Immediate Release: Contact: Gina Balaya (313) 226-9758

April 15, 2008

EVENT: Guilty Plea

Defendant: Kenneth Harrison

FORMER PONTIAC POLICE OFFICER PLEADS GUILTY TO THEFT

A former City of Pontiac Police Officer, who was the Treasurer of the Pontiac Police Officer’s Association (PPOA), pleaded guilty today to embezzlement charges stemming from his theft of PPOA funds, United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy announced today.

Murphy was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Andrew G. Arena, Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Kenneth Harrison, 35, of Waterford, Michigan, entered a guilty plea to Wire Fraud in the United States District Court before the Honorable Victoria A. Roberts.

The information presented to the court at the time of the plea showed that between July 2004 and November 2006, Harrison, while acting as Treasurer of the Pontiac Police Officer’s Association (PPOA), devised a scheme, whereby he would use the PPOA’s credit card for unauthorized purchases and services for his personal use and benefit, amounting to approximately $44,000. Harrison had been a Pontiac Police Officer since 1996.

United States Attorney Stephen J. Murphy said, “Stealing from the police officer association’s fund breaks two bonds of trust – between the union leadership and its members, and between the police and the public. The integrity of such membership funds must not be violated, particularly by an officer of the organization.”

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Harrison faces up to 18 months imprisonment and a fine of up to $30,000. Harrison will also be required to make full restitution to the PPOA.

A sentencing hearing was set by Judge Roberts for September 3, 2008 at 2:00 P.M.

The case was investigated by Special Agent Daniel J. Troccoli of the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James M. Wouczyna.