Featured Stories
Rent-to-own finance company to pay WA consumers $645K in multistate settlement
OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 13 -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release:
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Rent-to-own finance company to pay WA consumers $645K in multistate settlement
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Rent-to-own finance company Acima Digital LLC will pay Washington consumers $645,000 in restitution and forgive $1.7 million in consumer debt to resolve allegations the company misled shoppers into unfair and deceptive rent-to-own agreements that left them on the hook for much more than the original price of the goods.
About 2,300 Washington consumers will receive restitution payments, about $280
... Show Full Article
OLYMPIA, Washington, Nov. 13 -- Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown issued the following news release:
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Rent-to-own finance company to pay WA consumers $645K in multistate settlement
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Rent-to-own finance company Acima Digital LLC will pay Washington consumers $645,000 in restitution and forgive $1.7 million in consumer debt to resolve allegations the company misled shoppers into unfair and deceptive rent-to-own agreements that left them on the hook for much more than the original price of the goods.
About 2,300 Washington consumers will receive restitution payments, about $280on average. More than 1,300 Washington consumers will receive debt forgiveness at an average of $1,290 through the settlement with Acima and its parent, Acima Holdings LLC. Overall, the settlement between the companies and 43 states, including Washington, totals $183.5 million.
Acima partners with retailers to offer consumers rent-to-own financing for items including furniture, appliances, electronics, and jewelry. When a shopper uses a rental-purchase plan from Acima, Acima buys the item from the retailer and signs the consumer up for automatic monthly payments to Acima to eventually take ownership. According to the states' complaint, Acima deceptively advertised its plans as 90-day "same as cash" agreements, without disclosing the company defaulted consumers into 12-month plans that effectively charged shoppers more than double the original price advertised by the retailer. Acima also made it very difficult to return an item and cancel a rental-purchase agreement, consumers reported.
"We heard from Washington consumers who were infuriated to find out Acima's payment plans charged them more than twice the advertised price at the store," Attorney General Nick Brown said. "I'm grateful our consumer protection team secured this financial relief for Washingtonians and forced Acima to change its operations to no longer mislead consumers."
In the complaint, Washington alleges Acima violated the state's Lease Purchase Agreements Act, for, among other things, failing to clearly disclose terms of the agreements, charging more than the cash price of the product, and requiring consumers to pay fees to terminate a rental-purchase plan. Washington also alleges the company violated the Washington State Consumer Protection Act for deceptively advertising 12-month rental-purchase agreements as 90-day cash or interest-free agreements, unfairly blocking consumers' ability to cancel the agreements, and other actions.
Consumers eligible for restitution or lease forgiveness through this settlement do not need to take any action. The settlement administrator will contact consumers who qualify for restitution. Acima will contact consumers eligible to receive lease forgiveness.
Reforms to Acima's business practices
Under the settlement, Acima has agreed to make the following changes:
* Conduct robust training of its retail partners.
* Stop making certain advertising claims unless other material information is clearly and conspicuously disclosed.
* Stop obscuring the material terms and conditions of its rental-purchase agreements during Acima's electronic signature process.
* Stop marking up the cash price from that of Acima's retail partners.
* Make it easier for consumers to terminate their rental-purchase agreements by returning the merchandise to Acima.
* Stop reporting rental-purchase agreements to the big three credit reporting agencies for a period of five years.
* Properly handle late deliveries, merchandise damaged at the time of delivery, and adhere to legal obligations to make repairs to merchandise during the course of the lease.
Joining Brown in the settlement are the state attorneys general of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
The team handling the case for Washington includes Assistant Attorneys General Scott Kinkley, Ashley Gomez, Lynda Atkins, and Matt Geyman, and Paralegals Grace Monastrial, Mo Braithwaite, and Rosa Hernandez.
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Original text here: https://www.atg.wa.gov/news/news-releases/rent-own-finance-company-pay-wa-consumers-645k-multistate-settlement
California Department of Justice Releases Report on Officer-Involved Shooting of Aaron Gardner
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 13 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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California Department of Justice Releases Report on Officer-Involved Shooting of Aaron Gardner
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OAKLAND -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta, in accordance with Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), released a report today on the death of Aaron Gardner from an officer-involved shooting in Grover Beach, California on May 25, 2024. The incident involved officers from the Grover Beach Police Department (GBPD). The report is part of continuous efforts by the California Department of Justice
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 13 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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California Department of Justice Releases Report on Officer-Involved Shooting of Aaron Gardner
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OAKLAND -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta, in accordance with Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), released a report today on the death of Aaron Gardner from an officer-involved shooting in Grover Beach, California on May 25, 2024. The incident involved officers from the Grover Beach Police Department (GBPD). The report is part of continuous efforts by the California Department of Justice(DOJ) to provide transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices. The report presents a comprehensive analysis of the incident that outlines DOJ's findings. After a thorough investigation, DOJ concluded the evidence does not support filing criminal charges in this case.
"We hope that this report provides clarity to the Grover Beach community and to those personally affected by this incident," said Attorney General Bonta. "The California Department of Justice is committed to building a legal system that fosters transparency, trust, and accountability between law enforcement agencies and communities. We believe AB 1506 is vital in helping us achieve the goal to build a safer California."
On May 25, 2024, GBPD officers responded to an initial 911 call regarding Mr. Gardner threatening a person with a handgun but were unable to locate him. A GBPD officer then responded to a second call approximately ten minutes later about Mr. Gardner throwing rocks at passing vehicles and passersby. Once located, Mr. Gardner stated that he was armed, held the gun behind his back, and repeatedly ignored the officer's warnings to drop the gun. After Mr. Gardner aimed the gun at the officer, the officer fired his weapon, fatally wounding Mr. Gardner. After the shooting, Mr. Gardner's handgun was discovered to be a plastic, Glock-style replica.
AB 1506 requires DOJ to investigate all incidents of officer-involved shootings resulting in the death of an unarmed civilian in the state. After conducting a thorough investigation into this incident, DOJ concluded that the evidence does not show, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the officer involved acted without the intent to defend themselves and others from what they reasonably believed to be imminent death or serious bodily injury. Therefore, there is insufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution of the officer, and no further action will be taken in this case.
As part of all AB 1506 investigations, DOJ meticulously examines each case to propose policy recommendations that it believes will help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. After a detailed investigation, DOJ has identified five policy recommendations relating to this case. The first recommendation is for GBPD to work with the San Luis Obispo Sheriff's Communication Center to ensure that dispatchers are providing critical information in their communication with responding officers. The second recommendation is for GBPD to finalize their draft crisis intervention policy and provide training on that policy. The third recommendation is for GBPD to provide additional training on when to wait for backup before engaging in potentially high-risk encounter, such as engaging with a person who is committing battery and throwing rocks. The fourth recommendation is to provide additional training on the de-escalation tactics of using time, distance, and cover when approaching an armed or potentially violent subject. Lastly, the fifth recommendation is for GBPD to amend its de-escalation policy and training to comply with current state law.
Here is a copy of the report.
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Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/california-department-justice-releases-report-officer-involved-shooting-aaron (TNSmrp)
CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General McCuskey urges West Virginia veterans to file claims in Trajector bankruptcy proceedings
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Nov. 13 -- West Virginia Attorney General John B. McCuskey posted the following news release:
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CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General McCuskey urges West Virginia veterans to file claims in Trajector bankruptcy proceedings
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CHARLESTON, WV -- Attorney General JB McCuskey issued a consumer alert notifying West Virginia veterans that Trajector Holdings and affiliated entities have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. These companies charged veterans for assistance with federal veterans' benefits.
Federal law strictly regulates who may assist with VA benefits claims and
... Show Full Article
CHARLESTON, West Virginia, Nov. 13 -- West Virginia Attorney General John B. McCuskey posted the following news release:
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CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General McCuskey urges West Virginia veterans to file claims in Trajector bankruptcy proceedings
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CHARLESTON, WV -- Attorney General JB McCuskey issued a consumer alert notifying West Virginia veterans that Trajector Holdings and affiliated entities have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. These companies charged veterans for assistance with federal veterans' benefits.
Federal law strictly regulates who may assist with VA benefits claims andrestricts the fees that can be charged for preparing or submitting claims. Free, accredited assistance is available to veterans applying for earned benefits. Veterans who previously paid Trajector for benefits assistance may be eligible to recover funds through the bankruptcy proceedings and are urged to file a claim before the November 30, 2026, deadline.
"Veterans deserve fair treatment when seeking the benefits they earned through their service. There are concerns that this company charged unfairly high fees and pressured veterans into signing costly contracts. I am urging any veteran who was a victim of this company's tactics to please fill out and submit a claim to seek to get your money back," Attorney General McCuskey said.
How to File a Bankruptcy Claim
Trajector and its related entities filed for bankruptcy and are pending joint administration under Case No. 26-03286 before the Honorable Jacob A. Brown, in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida, Jacksonville Division.
The bankruptcy court recently extended the Proof of Claim filing deadline to November 30, 2026. Veterans who used Trajector's services and believe they are owed money can file a claim online or by mail:
* Submit Online: Visit the court-appointed claims agent, Verita Global, at www.veritaglobal.net/trajector and select "Submit Electronic Proof of Claim (ePOC)."
* Submit by Mail: Download the paper claim form and filing instructions under the "Claim Form" section on the same website.
When filing a claim, specify the total amount believed to be owed and include supporting records, such as contracts, receipts, payment histories, and correspondence. Retain personal copies of all submitted materials.
Failing to file a claim by November 30, 2026, may forfeit your right to receive any distribution from the bankruptcy estate. Submitting a claim does not guarantee financial recovery, as distributions depend on the final outcome of the court proceedings. Veterans seeking specific legal guidance regarding their bankruptcy rights should consult a private attorney.
Veterans and consumers with complaints about companies offering assistance with veterans' benefits claims are urged to contact the West Virginia Attorney General's Office by filing a complaint online or calling the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-368-8808.
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Original text here: https://ago.wv.gov/article/consumer-alert-attorney-general-mccuskey-urges-west-virginia-veterans-file-claims-trajector
Attorney General James Reminds New Yorkers to Be Cautious in Charitable Giving When Supporting Victims of Brooklyn Building Collapse
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 13 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release:
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Attorney General James Reminds New Yorkers to Be Cautious in Charitable Giving When Supporting Victims of Brooklyn Building Collapse
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NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today provided guidance to New Yorkers looking to support those who survived a recent collapse of an apartment building in Brooklyn. Attorney General James warns New Yorkers to be wary of sham charities that may take advantage of their concern and bad actors who misrepresent themselves as being associated
... Show Full Article
ALBANY, New York, Nov. 13 -- New York Attorney General Letitia James issued the following news release:
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Attorney General James Reminds New Yorkers to Be Cautious in Charitable Giving When Supporting Victims of Brooklyn Building Collapse
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NEW YORK - New York Attorney General Letitia James today provided guidance to New Yorkers looking to support those who survived a recent collapse of an apartment building in Brooklyn. Attorney General James warns New Yorkers to be wary of sham charities that may take advantage of their concern and bad actors who misrepresent themselves as being associatedwith a charity or relief efforts. Attorney General James encourages those who encounter potential scams to file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General (OAG).
"My heart breaks for those who lost their lives in this tragic accident and the families who are struggling to recover after losing their homes," said Attorney General James. "Scammers will often use disasters like this to take advantage of those who are trying to help, and I encourage all New Yorkers to follow my office's tips to ensure their donations are effective. As we pray for all those affected, I urge anyone who encounters a scam to report it to my office."
Fraudulent organizations can try to prey on New Yorkers' good intentions, especially following tragic accidents that leave families displaced and in need of immediate financial assistance. New Yorkers should be informed about how to avoid scams as they seek to help those in need. Attorney General James encourages New Yorkers to only give to legitimate organizations. New Yorkers should use the following tips to avoid scams and ensure their charitable donations are safe and effective:
* Solicited by Email? Find Out Who Is Soliciting. If you receive a solicitation by email, find out who is behind that email address. Contact the charity whose name is in the email or visit its website to find out if the email is really from the charity. Do not give personal information or your credit card number in response to an email solicitation unless you have checked out the charity.
* Be Careful When Giving Through Social Media or Other Fundraising Sites. Before giving through social media or fundraising sites, research the identity of the organizer of the fundraising efforts and ask the same questions you would of a charity. Online platforms that host groups and individuals soliciting for causes may not thoroughly vet those who use their service. Donors should only give to campaigns conducted by people whom they know. Donors also should take a close look at the site's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and Terms and Conditions to see what fees will be charged. Also, don't assume that charities recommended on social media sites, blogs, or other websites have already been vetted. Research the charity to confirm that the charity is aware of the campaign and has given its approval for the use of its name or logo. If available, sign up for updates from the campaign organizer to keep abreast of how contributions to the campaign are being spent.
* Check Before Giving. Donate to charities you are familiar with and carefully review information about the charity before you give. Most charities are required to register and file financial reports with OAG's Charities Bureau if they solicit contributions from New Yorkers. Check OAG's website for financial reports of charities or ask the charity directly for its reports.
* Ask How Your Donation Will Be Used. Find out how the charity plans to use your donation, including the services and individuals your donation will support. Find out more than just the cause. Find out what organization or entity will receive the money and what programs it conducts or what services it provides. Find out how much of the organization's budget supports its mission. All charities have administrative expenses but be wary if these costs outweigh the amount spent on relief.
* Look Into Newly Formed Organizations Carefully. Often, in the aftermath of tragedies, new organizations emerge to meet community needs. While most of these organizations are well-intentioned, and some may provide innovative forms of assistance, some may not have the experience or infrastructure to follow through on their promises, and some may turn out to be scams.
* Exercise Caution Before You Text a Contribution. Check the charity's website or call the charity to confirm it has authorized contributions to be made via text message.
* Don't Give Cash or Gift Cards, or Wire Money. Give directly to the charity either by check made payable to the organization or through the charity's website.
* Be Careful About Personal Information. Be cautious before giving credit card or personal information over the phone, by text message, or via the internet. In all cases, make sure you are familiar with the organization to which you give such information and check to see that the fundraising campaign is legitimate.
* Report Suspicious Organizations. If you believe an organization is misrepresenting its work or that a fundraising or charitable scam is taking place, please file a complaint with the Charities Bureau or email complaints@ag.ny.gov.
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Original text here: https://ag.ny.gov/press-release/2026/attorney-general-james-reminds-new-yorkers-be-cautious-charitable-giving-when (TNSmrp)
Attorney General Bonta to Keep Corporate Consolidation on a Short Leash, Challenges $3.5 Billion Veterinary Supply Merger
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 13 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Bonta to Keep Corporate Consolidation on a Short Leash, Challenges $3.5 Billion Veterinary Supply Merger
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OAKLAND -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and a multistate coalition of 21 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit to block Covetrus, Inc.'s (Covetrus) proposed $3.5 billion acquisition of MWI Animal Health (MWI) from Cencora, Inc. Covetrus and MWI are the nation's two largest veterinary supply distributors
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Nov. 13 -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued the following news release:
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Attorney General Bonta to Keep Corporate Consolidation on a Short Leash, Challenges $3.5 Billion Veterinary Supply Merger
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OAKLAND -- California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and a multistate coalition of 21 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit to block Covetrus, Inc.'s (Covetrus) proposed $3.5 billion acquisition of MWI Animal Health (MWI) from Cencora, Inc. Covetrus and MWI are the nation's two largest veterinary supply distributorsand currently compete directly to provide veterinary practices with essential products, including pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical equipment. A joint investigation revealed that the proposed acquisition would significantly reduce competition and threaten to drive up costs for veterinary clinics and pet owners in California. In the lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, the coalition argues that the proposed acquisition violates Section 7 of the Clayton Act, which prohibits mergers that may substantially lessen competition or tend to create a monopoly.
"California families are already facing rising costs, and the last thing they need is a corporate merger that threatens to make essential veterinary care even more expensive," said Attorney General Bonta. "Our pets are part of our families, and the companies supplying their care should not be able to put profits ahead of their health and well-being. The proposed acquisition threatens to squeeze veterinary clinics and leave pet owners footing the bill. As the People's Attorney, I'm proud to stand up for all members of California's families -- including those with four legs."
Veterinary practices rely on a specialized supply chain to obtain the medicines, vaccines, and equipment necessary to care for animals. In the United States, the vast majority of these products are distributed through just three national suppliers: Covetrus, MWI, and Patterson Veterinary. On March 18, 2026, Covetrus entered into an agreement to acquire MWI from Cencora for approximately $3.5 billion. The proposed acquisition comes as veterinary care costs have risen roughly 60% since 2014, with prices increasing another 5.7% from August 2025 to August 2026.
The joint FTC and multistate investigation found substantial evidence that Covetrus and MWI are direct head-to-head competitors, competing for veterinary customers through daily price matching, volume-based drug rebates, and service contract negotiations. By eliminating one of the primary alternative suppliers available to California veterinary practices, the acquisition would give the combined company significant power to raise prices and impose unfavorable contract terms. Smaller regional distributors and specialty suppliers lack the scale and infrastructure to meaningfully constrain the combined company's market power or meet the full range of supplies needed by most clinics.
The merger also threatens the reliability of the veterinary supply chain. Veterinary practices currently rely on multiple distributors to navigate product shortages, delivery delays, and inventory disruptions. For example, when one supplier experiences a shortage of a critical vaccine or prescription medication, clinics can turn to the other to maintain continuity of care. Combining Covetrus and MWI would eliminate this important safeguard, increasing the risk of product shortages, reduced delivery frequency, and diminished service quality. The coalition seeks to block the transaction to preserve competition in the veterinary supply market and protect California veterinary practices and pet owners from its anticipated harms.
In filing today's lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta joins the FTC and the attorneys general of Arizona, Arkansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, and Texas.
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Original text here: https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-bonta-keep-corporate-consolidation-short-leash-challenges-35
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CHARGES WOMAN FOR FRAUDULENTLY APPLYING FOR OVER $500,000 IN PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM LOANS
CHICAGO, Illinois, Nov. 13 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release:
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ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CHARGES WOMAN FOR FRAUDULENTLY APPLYING FOR OVER $500,000 IN PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM LOANS
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Chicago - Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a Lemont, Illinois woman was charged in a 47-count indictment for fraudulently applying for more than $500,000 in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans.
Raoul's office charged Yvette Wilson, 53, in Cook County Circuit Court with five counts of theft and two counts of financial institution fraud, Class 1 felonies punishable
... Show Full Article
CHICAGO, Illinois, Nov. 13 -- Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul issued the following news release:
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ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CHARGES WOMAN FOR FRAUDULENTLY APPLYING FOR OVER $500,000 IN PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM LOANS
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Chicago - Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a Lemont, Illinois woman was charged in a 47-count indictment for fraudulently applying for more than $500,000 in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans.
Raoul's office charged Yvette Wilson, 53, in Cook County Circuit Court with five counts of theft and two counts of financial institution fraud, Class 1 felonies punishableby up to 15 years in prison; six counts of loan fraud and 21 counts of theft, Class 2 felonies punishable by up to seven years in prison; and one count of wire fraud and 12 counts of forgery, Class 3 felonies punishable by up to five years in prison.
"These loans were intended to lift up struggling business owners during the COVID-19 pandemic. These hundreds of thousands of dollars were not free cash for individuals to fraudulently line their pockets," Raoul said. "I will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies to ensure we hold individuals accountable for exploiting critical aid programs."
Between March and September 2021, Raoul's office alleges Wilson submitted fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of other applicants. The applications included false information such as false incomes, false employment information and false tax forms. As a result, Wilson caused more than $500,000 in PPP loans to be issued based on false information.
The Attorney General's office is prosecuting this case following an investigation by and referral from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) Suburban Financial Crimes Task Force.
The public is reminded that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This is the most recent action Attorney General Raoul has taken to hold individuals accountable for fraudulently collecting government assistance related to the pandemic. Raoul's office has prosecuted dozens of individuals for PPP loan fraud and referred other investigations to the appropriate state's attorneys for further evaluation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Samantha Cain for Raoul's Special Prosecutions Bureau.
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Original text here: https://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/news/story/attorney-general-raoul-charges-woman-for-fraudulently-applying-for-over-500-000-in-paycheck-protection-program-loans
AG Reviews Fatal July 2025 Otisville Shooting by Michigan State Police, Finds Troopers Acted in Defense of Self and Others
LANSING, Michigan, Nov. 13 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Reviews Fatal July 2025 Otisville Shooting by Michigan State Police, Finds Troopers Acted in Defense of Self and Others
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LANSING - Today, the Michigan Department of Attorney General announced it has concluded its review of the officer-involved shooting death (PDF) of James Jennings, then 54, of Otisville, on July 31st, 2025, without issuing charges against the Michigan State Police Troopers involved, finding they acted in self-defense and defense of fellow officers and bystanders.
... Show Full Article
LANSING, Michigan, Nov. 13 -- Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued the following news release:
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AG Reviews Fatal July 2025 Otisville Shooting by Michigan State Police, Finds Troopers Acted in Defense of Self and Others
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LANSING - Today, the Michigan Department of Attorney General announced it has concluded its review of the officer-involved shooting death (PDF) of James Jennings, then 54, of Otisville, on July 31st, 2025, without issuing charges against the Michigan State Police Troopers involved, finding they acted in self-defense and defense of fellow officers and bystanders.It is the policy of the Michigan State Police (MSP) to send all officer-involved shootings to the Department of Attorney General for review.
On the afternoon of July 31st, 2025, Michigan State Police Troopers responded to a 9-1-1 call and met a woman near Jennings' residence reporting Jennings had attacked her in his home, from which she escaped. Troopers documented the victim's injuries and reached Jennings by phone, attempting at length to convince him to exit his home peaceably to meet with responding Troopers. Jennings refused, telling Troopers he was "dug in" and "hunkered down," and that he was not going to jail or prison. Knowing Jennings had numerous firearms in the home, responding Troopers requested assistance from the MSP Emergency Support Team and established a security perimeter around Jennings' home.
The Emergency Support Team began arriving on-scene at 5:30 p.m. and continued, by phone, negotiating Jennings' surrender. Police vehicle public address systems were used to additionally convey MSP demands that Jennings exit the home, advising him he was under arrest and making assurances of his safety if he did so. The Team employed several non-lethal measures to effectuate Jennings' surrender including siren activations, flash-bang devices, and pepper balls. Specialty vehicles were deployed to ram the front door and otherwise breach the second story of the home wherein Jennings remained.
Jennings fired a single shot at Troopers at 6:54 p.m. Police did not return gun fire, and proceeded deploying non-lethal means, such as projectile pepper spray, and again making announcements asking Jennings to vacate the house and that in doing so he would not be harmed. Jennings resumed firing, targeting Troopers and their occupied vehicles, forcing the Troopers to return fire to defend themselves and fellow officers. Numerous public bystanders were directly in Jennings' path of fire, and one of his shots entered a neighbor's occupied home, narrowly missing the resident inside. From 6:54 p.m. to 7:09 p.m., Jennings opened fire on Troopers four distinct times, and five Troopers of the MSP Emergency Support Team returned fire. At 7:09 p.m., relying on radio transmissions describing Jennings' location, Troopers shot into the home, including through the roof and walls, into the area from which Jennings was shooting. Jennings was killed in an attic space, surrounded by multiple firearms and ammunition magazines, having suffered four gunshot wounds.
The Michigan State Police Emergency Support Team was created in 1974 to handle highly dangerous and critical incidents facing law enforcement. This unit utilizes equipment and training necessary for extremely difficult and/or dangerous tasks in such areas as hostage rescue, barricaded gunmen, high risk arrest and search warrant service, VIP security, and counterterrorism. The Emergency Support Team contains tactical and negotiator sub-units. The tactical and negotiator components participate in joint training and work as a cohesive unit in operational calls. Team members include troopers, sergeants and lieutenants from posts and sections throughout the state, averaging 60 members. Officers are activated according to their proximity to the location of the request.
Under MSP policy, all officer-involved shootings are first assigned to investigators from a different district than where the incident occurred. The initial investigation was conducted by the MSP Second District Special Investigation Section, which then referred the matter to the Department of Attorney General.
Attorneys at the Department of Attorney General reviewed Michigan State Police Reports, signed statements from MSP Troopers on-scene, body-worn camera footage, video footage from police vehicles, the Genesee County Medical Examiner's report, scene diagrams, MSP's Use of Force policies, and other material.
The legal issue in this case was whether the MSP Troopers acted in a legal manner during their interaction with Jennings when they used deadly force by discharging their weapons. Law enforcement officers have the same privilege of self-defense as anyone else and have the lawful authority to use force to protect the public welfare. An officer's decision about the level of force necessary to control an individual will be based on the officer's perception of the threat and the subject's apparent ability to carry out that threat.
Here, under all of the facts and circumstances presented, the Department concluded that the Michigan State Police Troopers acted in self-defense, and in defense of their fellow responding Troopers and public bystanders, when they fatally shot James Jennings, who had fired on Troopers several times including in the direction of bystanders and into a neighboring residence.
The Department of Attorney General is available to lead or support any investigation of an officer-involved shooting at the request of any county prosecutor or law enforcement agency within the state and today renews this commitment and offer.
A full report detailing the Michigan Department of Attorney General review can be found here (PDF).
REPORT: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/-/media/Project/Websites/AG/releases/2026/November/WDM-James-Jennings-Redacted.pdf?rev=bd34da6b2fe146b5b5e1d72cb3978397&hash=C69DD31592CBC5045B6B5EA9682DFD8B
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Original text here: https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2026/11/13/ag-reviews-fatal-july-2025-otisville-shooting-by-michigan-state-police
