Future of planned detention center under review

The future of the planned immigration detention center in Romulus remains unknown following the pause in the purchase of multiple warehouses across the country ordered by new Department of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin.

The federal lawsuit filed by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel last week challenging the proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility proposed in Romulus continues, according to officials, who announced the pause while the prices paid for potential detention centers across the country are “reviewed.”

In Romulus, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paid $34.67 million for the 250,000 square foot building at 7535 Cogswell Road, 57 percent more than the 2003 sale price of $22.1 million. It is not clear whether Mullin plans to move forward with plans to convert the Romulus building or the 10 other already acquired warehouses into detention centers, all purchased at prices well over market value.

The review of purchases and pricing began less than two weeks into Mullin’s appointment to the job.
More than $1 billion was paid by DHS and ICE on 11 industrial warehouse properties across the United States as of early April 2026, often paying premiums of 11 to 13 percent—and in some cases double—the appraised market value to convert them into detention centers under former Secretary Kristi Noem. 

The acquisitions were part of a massive billion plan to ramp up detention capacity as part of the Trump administration's mass deportation agenda. 

Multiple public protests took place at the Romulus site and Romulus Mayor Robert A. McCraight opposed the proposed facility since learning of the plan.  Members of the city council unanimously approved a resolution opposing the detention facility.

In the lawsuit, Nessel claims the (DHS) officials did not follow the federal procedures for the acquisition of property which include public input and accordance with local ordinances.  The filing seeks to halt actions by ICE in converting the warehouse into a 500-capacity detention center claiming failures of the federal department to evaluate alternatives, complete environmental reviews, and coordinate with state and local officials.

The court filing also claims that DHS and ICE violated the Administrative Procedure Act by failing to adequately consider alternative facilities like existing prisons, jails, or detention centers. The lawsuit claims the property has historically used for warehouse operations and was purchased by ICE without any notification to state, county or local governments or the public. The site had been positioned, authorities said, for city economic development and was expected to be sold to an automotive supplier which would have brought both jobs and tax revenue to the city. In the court filings, concerns about the proximity of the detention center to residential neighborhoods and schools, the location of the property in a floodplain and infrastructure limitations are cited.

During the announcement of the lawsuit McCraight noted the failure of the federal government to comply with the regulations posed a threat to the community.

“Any project of this magnitude must go through all required permitting and legal channels,” McCraight said during the announcement of the lawsuit.

“Romulus has been ignored over objections over a deep injection well, airport expansion, incorrect floodplain maps, all driving housing values down. Not to mention, in addition to a lawsuit fighting radioactive materials being buried in a neighboring landfill,” McCraight posted on social media.

“The people of Romulus have had unwanted infrastructure imposed on them before - last time it was a hazardous waste injection well, now it’s an ICE detention center. This proposed facility will drain police resources, hamper economic development, and bring chaos into our community,” said State Sen. Darrin Camilleri. “I applaud AG Nessel for her efforts to fight back against this unwanted project.”

“ICE has lost in court more than 4,400 times since October for wrongfully jailing people. Last year in ICE detention, we saw record deaths,” said state Representative Dylan Wegela. “This year alone at least 13 people have died in ICE custody. It comes as no surprise that for an agency with a track record of terrible conditions for their facilities, ICE would choose a terrible spot for a new detention center like the Cogswell facility in Romulus. I represent the part of Romulus where this proposed facility is, and no one wants it. It’s a disaster in the making.”

Career path

The Career Fair co-hosted last week by Romulus Senior High School and Mayor Robert McCraight drew a large crowd of enthusiastic students to the display manned by Romulus police officers. Students tried on safety vests, helmets and even goggles under the watchful eyes of officers. Police Chief Robert Pfannes stopped by and officers said they “had a great time” sharing information and answering student questions about careers in law enforcement. “We were proud to support local students as they explore their futures,” noted a social media post from the department.

Sumpter Town Hall meeting set to discuss road conditions

Sumpter Township residents will have a chance to present their concerns about the condition of the roads in the area during a town hall meeting requested by Supervisor Tim Bowman now set for 6 p.m. April 28.

Bowman initially suggested the meeting for April 10 but following a discussion at the March 24 Board of Trustees meeting, the new date was approved. The meeting is scheduled specifically to discuss road conditions in the township, which Bowman said “beat your guts out” due to the severe potholes. Township officials declared the road conditions an emergency situation last month in a strongly worded letter to Wayne County officials. The letter cited the dangerous road conditions and the threat to public safety the hole-riddled roads cause.

During the meeting, Bowman explained that his 91-year-old mother had waited “one hour and 10 minutes” for an ambulance after an accident left her bleeding and needing medical attention. He said it took first responders from the fire department 45 minutes to navigate the pothole-filled roads to arrive to provide aid in the emergency situation.

Bowman reiterated that the township roads are the responsibility of Wayne County, but little or no response has been received to the township demand for attention to the matter. He told the board members that in addition to the occasional grading, the roads require the installation of gravel and crowns so water will drain. He added that the ditches along the sides of the road are in need of cleaning, which is also the responsibility of Wayne County.

Bowman said he wanted a town hall type meeting to allow residents to speak about road repairs and conditions in the township in an effort to prompt some attention from the county. He suggested that the remarks from residents might help in filing a lawsuit against the county for the failed road maintenance.

“I want to hear first-hand how it affects residents,” Bowman said.

25-year police veteran retires from Canton department

Long-time Ofc. Jeffrey Seifert has retired from the Canton Township Police Department.

Seifert began his 25-year career with the Canton Police Department as a Public Safety Service Officer (PSSO) in 2001. During his quarter century on the job, he served as a police and fire dispatcher, 911 call taker, and jail attendant. Five years into the position, he was selected as the first PSSO to participate in the department Career Development Program, which provided sponsorship to the police academy. In 2006, Seifert was officially sworn in as a Canton Police Officer.

Seifert was first assigned to the patrol division, where he responded to calls for service, conducted traffic enforcement, and carried out investigations. In his duties of providing emergency services to individuals in need, Seifert displayed the highest levels of respect, kindness, and professionalism, fostering trust and treating all individuals with dignity, officials said.

For the past 12 years, Jeff has served as a Field Training Officer (FTO), mentoring, training, and evaluating 42 new officers as they transitioned from the academy to active duty. In this role, he has played a critical part in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application, ensuring recruits understand department policies, follow safety protocols, and uphold the highest standards of ethical policing, according to a statement from township officials.

Seifert has dedicated the past nine years to serving as a department recruiter, representing the Canton Police Department at job fairs and community events to promote the profession of law enforcement. In addition, he has become the informal department historian, donating countless hours of his own time to research and preserve department history, a contribution made even more meaningful as the department celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Throughout his career Seifert has been recognized with numerous awards and citations, including Officer of the Year in 2015. He has also received countless letters and notes of appreciation from citizens complimenting his professionalism, compassion, and genuine kindness he consistently demonstrated in a wide range of situations and emergencies.

“After 25 years of service, Jeff leaves a legacy of kindness, integrity and quiet strength that has touched so many. His example of policing will continue to inspire long after his watch has ended,” said Joseph Bialy, interim police chief.

Belleville Rotary honors members

The Rotary Club of Belleville recently honored several members, celebrating their meaningful service to both the community and internationally.

Rotarians Joyce Rochowiak, David Brown, Ray Eissinger, Keith and Ginger Bruder, and Dr. John MacDermid were presented plaques marking their exemplary service in the Educate Ghana project. A financial donation from the Belleville was matched by Rotary International for a total contribution of $5,000. The funding was used to renovate the Assin Kyinaso D/A Basic School building in Ghana and provide furnishings and classroom supplies. Five of the classrooms display plaques honoring the Belleville Rotarians who helped with the project.

The meeting included presentations from Cozadd Grant recipients who detailed the use of the grants awarded from the Rotary club. Speakers included Major Kris Wood from the Salvation Army; Sumpter Township Fire Chief Jamie Goode and Nicole Tomaszewski from Guiding Harbor. The funding was used to prevent homelessness for 13 families in the community, purchase a LUCAS chest compressions system for the fire department to aid response capabilities for first responders and the purchase of three endurance beds for the Girlstown residential foster care home.

Club member Rachel Kozlowski was honored by her fellow club members with the Paul Harris Fellows Award for her generosity to the Rotary Foundation and her commitment to Rotary.

‘HER’story

The Fourth Annual celebration of Women’s History Month took place recently at the Summit on the Park in Canton Township. This year, the event theme was "Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future." Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak, center,  began the celebration which featured three notable speakers who have all made sustainability the focus of their careers. The first speaker at the event was the Rev. Faith Fowler, executive director of Cass Community Social Services in Detroit, where she leads innovative programs that provide housing, job training, and supportive services to individuals experiencing poverty and homelessness. Following her remarks, Madeline Walker Miller, the CEO and founder of NexTiles, a Detroit-based company that transforms textile waste into building materials spoke to the audience. The final speaker was Danielle Todd, the executive director of Make Food Not Waste, where she leads statewide efforts to reduce food waste and address food insecurity through education, policy advocacy, and community partnerships.

 

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Eco-Fair set in Romulus

The Romulus Garden Club is sponsoring the 2026 Eco-Fair from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, May 2 at the Romulus Athletic Center.

More than 20 eco-friendly organizations and vendors will participate at the free event which includes speakers and presenters. Free activities for all ages are planned. Door prizes will be awarded.

The athletic center is at 35765 Northline Road.

 

Farm camp registration opens

Early registration for Maybury Farm Summer Camp is now available. The four-day, Tuesday-Friday, outdoor camp provides children with experience with animal care, gardening and maintenance. Camps take place from June 16 through Aug. 14 at the working farm on Seven Mile Road in Northville.

More information about the camp - including weekly session topics, dates, requirements, cost and registration is available at mayburyfarm.org/educate.

 Firefighters serve pancakes

Sumpter Township firefighters will host a Pancke Breakfast at the Sumpter Township Fire Station from 9 a.m. until noon April 18.

The cost for breakfast is $6 per person.

The fire station is located at 20550 Sumpter Road in Belleville.

 

Farmers Market date set

The Canton 2026 Off-Season Farmers Market will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road. The market will be open from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.

Federal lawsuit filed to halt Romulus ICE facility

A federal lawsuit has been filed challenging the proposed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility proposed in the City of Romulus.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel filed the suit last week in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. The filing seeks to halt actions by ICE in converting a warehouse on 7535 Cogswell Road into a 500-capacity detention center claiming failure of the federal department to evaluate alternatives, complete environmental reviews, and coordinate with state and local officials.

According to property records the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) paid $34.67 million for the 261,450 square-foot building. Commercial real estate experts estimate this as a 57 percent premium cost for the property which was sold for $22.1 million in 2023. Similar overpayments for several other proposed buildings in multiple states are currently under review by the department, according to news reports.

The court filing claims that DHS and ICE violated the Administrative Procedure Act by failing to adequately consider alternative facilities like existing prisons, jails, or detention centers. The lawsuit claims the property has historically used for warehouse operations and was purchased by ICE without any notification to state, county or local governments or the public. The site had been positioned, authorities said, for city economic development and was expected to be sold to an automotive supplier which would have brought both jobs and tax revenue to the city. In the court filings, concerns about the proximity of the detention center to residential neighborhoods and schools, the location of the property in a floodplain and infrastructure limitations are cited.

During the announcement of the lawsuit last week, Romulus Mayor Robert A. McCraight noted the failure of the federal government to comply with the regulations posed a threat to the community.

“We are not asking for a handout, just the opportunity to grow and improve the quality of life for our residents, without being burdened by outside decisions that do not involve our community. Any project of this magnitude must go through all required permitting and legal channels,” McCraight said.

McCraight also took to social media to explain the city position regarding the detention center.

“Since everyone seems to have an opinion on this issue, and those opinions are largely based on assumptions and personal beliefs, let me be perfectly clear,” McCraight posted. “This legal action is about fighting for my community. Fighting for my home. My responsibilities don't permit me to allow my personal feelings to determine a course of action.”

McCraight posted that he believes the department officials would have determined the Cogswell Road building was unsuitable for the proposed facility had they followed official procedures established by the federal government for property acquisitions.

“This will be another negative impact on our city and a drain on our public safety,” McCraight posted. “Romulus has been ignored over objections over a deep injection well, airport expansion, incorrect floodplain maps, all driving housing values down. Not to mention, in addition to a lawsuit fighting radioactive materials being buried in a neighboring landfill,” he added.

“As the state's Attorney General, I have a legal and moral obligation to act if and when this administration behaves unlawfully and does so in a way that harms Michigan residents,” said Nessel. “The Romulus warehouse is simply not—and never will be—an appropriate place for a large-scale detention center. DHS…appears to have conducted an ill-conceived rush job, free from any traditional planning considerations or even basic concern for the many Romulus residents who will be impacted by their actions,” Nessel said during the official announcement of the lawsuit.

Members of the Romulus City Council voted to join the federal lawsuit. Council members previously approved an official resolution opposing the proposed ICE facility in the city.

“The people of Romulus have had unwanted infrastructure imposed on them before - last time it was a hazardous waste injection well, now it’s an ICE detention center. This proposed facility will drain police resources, hamper economic development, and bring chaos into our community,” said State Sen. Darrin Camilleri. “I applaud AG Nessel for her efforts to fight back against this unwanted project.”

“ICE has lost in court more than 4,400 times since October for wrongfully jailing people. Last year in ICE detention, we saw record deaths,” said State Rep. Dylan Wegela. “This year alone at least 13 people have died in ICE custody. It comes as no surprise that for an agency with a track record of terrible conditions for their facilities, ICE would choose a terrible spot for a new detention center like the Cogswell facility in Romulus. I represent the part of Romulus where this proposed facility is, and no one wants it. It’s a disaster in the making.”

Plymouth Township man hospitalized after dog attack

A Plymouth Township man remains hospitalized in stable condition following an attack by three large dogs last Saturday morning.

According to police reports,  police received an emergency call at about 6:35 a.m. March 28, reporting that a jogger was being attacked by three huge dogs. The caller told the 911 dispatcher that the man was on the ground “lifeless” and was no longer attempting to fight off the animals. The first officer on the scene in the 12000 block of Canton Center Road attempted to reach the victim but was aggressively confronted by the animals, according to police reports of the incident. The officer discharged his firearm in an attempt to clear a path to the unresponsive victim and one of the larger dogs was struck by the round. All three of the dogs ran from the scene in response to the gunshot.

Emergency first responders treated the victim, a man in his 60s, at the scene and transported him to a nearby hospital where he was reported in stable condition at press time.

After aiding the victim, officers searched the area and located one of the suspected dogs running loose near an elementary school. The animal, a Cane Corso, was secured and taken to the Huron Valley Humane Society facility for quarantine. The dog injured by the gunshot, also a Cane Corso, was located in the backyard of a neighborhood home, about five blocks from the scene of the attack. Several attempts by officers to secure the animal were unsuccessful and police were forced to dispatch the injured dog to protect the public, according to police reports. The third dog, a large pit bull, escaped from the scene and was captured by police early Tuesday morning in the area of Ann Arbor Road and Lilley, according to police.

According to breeder information, Cane Corsos are powerful mastiffs requiring experienced owners due to intense protective instincts, stubbornness, and massive size. Standard for the breed is in excess of 100 pounds. The dogs, according to the official website, “require firm training, secure fencing, and are generally not suitable for first-time owners.”

The owner of the dogs, a Plymouth Township resident, has been identified by police and the investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to police.

Anyone with any information about the incident is urged to contact police at (734) 354-3250.

Inkster mayor to challenge incumbent in democratic primary race  

Inkster Mayor Byron Nolen is challenging U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib in the primary election to choose a Democratic candidate for the Michigan 12th Congressional District.

Tlaib has represented the district since 2019. Nolen’s entry into the race signals a potential shift in what has largely been a stable seat for democrats in recent election cycles. Nolen said he is running on the idea that elected office should serve the public first.

“A congressional seat is a public trust, not a personal platform,” Nolen said, criticizing what he described as political leadership driven by personal agendas rather than constituents.

Nolen is currently serving as mayor of Inkster, where he has been credited with helping guide the city through financial challenges. Professionally, he is an employment attorney and small business owner. His campaign is expected to focus on civil rights, constitutional protections, and what he calls “genuine representation” for all residents of the district.

The 12th Congressional District includes parts of western Wayne County and downriver communities. Tlaib has not yet publicly responded to Nolen campaign announcement. She significantly outperformed other Democrats in her 2024 re-election, including areas like Dearborn, despite criticism from some local officials regarding her stances on the Biden-Harris administration. 

 Wayne Westland school district names new superintendent

Members of the Wayne-Westland Board of Education last week named Dr. Catherine M. Cost as the permanent superintendent of schools following a rigorous search and multiple candidate interviews.

Cost was named as interim superintendent last June. Her new title will become effective July 1, pending successful contract negotiations, according to an official statement from the district.

Cost is an experienced Michigan educator and school administrator who has served as a superintendent, assistant superintendent, and principal in multiple districts.  She has a career spanning two decades, focusing on school administration, public education, and supporting student and family services. 

She earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan, a master's degree from Oakland University, and a doctorate in Education Administration from Wayne State University. Cost served as the assistant superintendent for Farmington Public Schools for eight years and worked in that district as both a school principal and teacher.

Cost served as superintendent of Wyandotte Public Schools from 2014 through 2023 and as interim superintendent at Hazel Park Schools prior to accepting the interim superintendent position at Wayne Westland in June.

 Hop to it

 

The first event of the year for Sumpter Township Parks and Recreation was a huge success last Saturday, despite the cold temperatures, organizers noted. An estimated 250 to 300 children, at right, participated in the Easter Egg Hunt at Graham Park. Rumor has it that Township Manager Ken Marten may have been inside the Flop -E- Bunny costume having photos taken with the children.

More Easter events including marshmallow drops and Easter egg hunts are scheduled this week including:

 

In INKSTER:

Several Easter egg hunts are scheduled in and around Inkster including a unique Helicopter Drop Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. April 4, featuring free lunch, community activities, and candy-filled eggs. Another event includes an Easter Extravaganza with a, "Kiddie Disco" featuring a bunny meet-and-greet from 4 until 8 p.m. on April 4 at 27114 Michigan Ave. The event includes a bunny experience and egg hunt. Cost is $10 per child. 

 

In PLYMOUTH:

The annual Plymouth Township Easter Egg Hunt will take place beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 4 at Plymouth Township Park baseball fields. The community event is sponsored by the Plymouth Lions Club and is for children 10 and younger. 

Easter EggStravaganza is set for 10 a.m. until noon at Trinity Church March 28, and an Easter Brunch at Saint John's Resort is planned for 10 a.m. April 5

It is recommended to check the websites of the Plymouth Park Department or specific venues for potential registration requirements. 

 

In WAYNE WESTLAND:

Several Easter egg hunts and spring events are scheduled in the Wayne/Westland area  including the traditional Wayne County Parks Marshmallow Drop. Thousands of marshmallows will be dropped from a helicopter. Special prizes will be awarded for lucky finds.

The drop this year will take place Friday, April 3, at Nankin Mills Park, 33275 Edward North Hines Dr, Westland. The annual event will feature a special sensory Marshmallow Drop at 9 a.m. and a general drop at 11 a.m.

The event is free and is limited to children 12 and younger.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

 

Firefighters serve pancakes

Sumpter Township firefighters will host a Pancke Breakfast at the Sumpter Township Fire Station from 9 a.m. until noon April 18.

The cost for breakfast is $6 per person.

The fire station is located at 20550 Sumpter Road in Belleville.

 

Law Day set at court

The 5th Annual Community Day is planned for Friday, May 1, on the grounds of the 34^th District Court in Romulus.

Throughout the day, there will be public safety exhibits; a community car show; live entertainment; local vendors offering complimentary giveaways and a variety of food trucks on site.

The court is located at 11129 Wayne Road in Romulus.

 

Farmers Market date set

The Canton 2026 Off-Season Farmers Market will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road. Markets are set for 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.

 

Mental Health Fair set

The Plymouth Community United Way will host the 5^th Annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25 in Kellogg Park in downtown Plymouth.

The event is free and will include 120 booths, therapy dogs, a walk-through brain experience, free vision screening, chair massages and entertainment. There will also be a petting zoo, magician and face painter on hand.

Police officers, motorists injured in fiery crash

The six Canton Township Police officers injured while pulling trapped motorists from their vehicles during a fiery truck crash last week have each been released from the hospital.

At press time, three people trapped in a burning vehicle remain hospitalized in serious condition, according to updated reports.

The much-publicized multiple vehicle crash took place at about 1 p.m. last Wednesday, March 18 at the intersection of Ford and Haggerty roads, near I-275 in Canton Township. Interim Canton Police Chief Joseph Bialy initially told media representatives that an SUV was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of Haggerty Road and crashed first into a truck and then into  the fuel tank of a semi-truck attempting to turn right at the intersection. The impact of the speeding vehicle caused a fuel spill from the semi, which ignited and trapped multiple motorists on Ford Road in their vehicles.

Canton officers were immediately on the scene and pulled passengers and drivers to safety but at least six of the officers were injured du
ring the rescues, according to police reports. The officers were treated and released from a local hospital along with the driver of the semi-truck who all suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

The three people traveling in the SUV involved in the crash remained hospitalized early this week.

The crash and subsequent extreme fire damage closed the heavily-traveled intersection for several hours. Officials noted that firefighters battled the high flames and intense heat for the fire for some time. Bialy said the intense heat from the fire melted the traffic control signals at the intersections, which will have to be replaced.

“They fought courageously to get these flames down,” Bialy said.

An investigation into the circumstances and cause of the crash remains ongoing, according to police, and the final investigative findings will be referred to the office of the Wayne County Prosecutor for determination of any criminal charges.

Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak expressed her respect for the lifesaving actions of both the police and fire departments in the situation.

"Lives were saved because of the expertise and bravery of our public safety team," Graham Hudak said. "They moved quickly to secure the fire in the area and prevent further danger, and we couldn’t be more proud of their dedication."

Canton Township Deputy Fire Chief Jamie Strassner said the fast action of his department in controlling what could have been a disastrous situation.

He said fire crews quickly shifted into hazardous materials response mode while working to contain the ignited diesel fuel, protect nearby waterways and coordinate cleanup of the area while prioritizing care and transport of injured drivers and passengers. He said crews controlled the blaze and heavy black smoke within 10 minutes. Multiple agencies responded to the scene, including mutual aid partners from neighboring communities.

Strassner said the rate of speed involved in the crash could have resulted in a much more serious outcome. Officials were grateful, he said, there were no fatalities in the incident.

Easter ‘EGGStravaganza’

Communities plan annual celebrations to welcome spring holiday

Easter events including marshmallow drops and Easter egg hunts are scheduled throughout the area and include multiple activities for children.

 

In CANTON TOWNSHIP:

Egg Hunt Poolooza is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Saturday, March 28 in the Summit Aquatic Center pools followed by a rubber ducky race. This is a unique egg hunt where children find eggs in the pools to redeem for prizes, organizers said. The cost is $15 for Canton residents and $20 for non-residents.

In INKSTER:

Several Easter egg hunts are scheduled in and around Inkster including a unique Helicopter Drop Egg Hunt at 11 a.m. April 4, featuring free lunch, community activities, and candy-filled eggs. Another event includes an Easter Extravaganza with a, "Kiddie Disco" featuring a bunny meet-and-greet from 4 until 8 p.m. on April 4 at 27114 Michigan Ave. The event includes a bunny experience and egg hunt. Cost is $10 per child. 

In PLYMOUTH:

The annual Plymouth Township Easter Egg Hunt will take place beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 4 at Plymouth Township Park baseball fields. The community event is sponsored by the Plymouth Lions Club and is for children 10 and younger. 

Easter EggStravaganza is set for 10 a.m. until noon at Trinity Church March 28, and an Easter Brunch at Saint John's Resort is planned for 10 a.m. April 5

It is recommended to check the websites of the Plymouth Park Department Plymouth Park Department or specific venues for potential registration requirements. 

In SUMPTER TOWNSHIP:

Sumpter Township will host an Easter celebration from noon until 2 p.m. Saturday, March 28 at Graham Park, 24560 Sumpter Road in Belleville. An egg hunt, coloring contest and egg relay race are planned along with photos with Flop-E-Bunny. There is no admission fee.In WAYNE WESTLAND:

Several Easter egg hunts and spring events are scheduled in the Wayne/Westland area  including the traditional Wayne County Parks Marshmallow Drop. Thousands of marshmallows will be dropped from a helicopter. Special prizes will be awarded for lucky finds.

The drop this year will take place Friday, April 3, at Nankin Mills Park, 33275 Edward North Hines Dr, Westland. The annual event will feature a special sensory Marshmallow Drop at 9 a.m. and a general drop at 11 a.m.

The event is free and is limited to children 12 and younger.

Wayne Church Egg Hunt is set for noon this Sunday, March 29 at the church located at 210 S Wayne Ave.

Sumpter Township man facing federal child sex abuse charges

A 30-year-old Sumpter Township man is facing federal criminal charges in connection to sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography.

Bryce Silas Patterson was charged with sex trafficking of a minor, sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography following an investigation by the Southeast Michigan Trafficking and Exploitation Crime (SEMTEC) Task Force, the FBI and the Sumpter Police Department according to United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. and Sumpter Township Police Chief Eric Luke.

Patterson appeared in federal court Monday, March 23, and was ordered detained by a magistrate judge. His preliminary court examination on the charges is set for April 2.

According to the criminal complaint, agents with SEMTEC conducted an undercover operation in an effort to recover a minor who was believed to be the victim of sex trafficking. Information gathered by the agents alleged that Patterson posted advertisements for commercial sex, which included photos of minor girls, on a commonly used website. In addition to posting the ads, Patterson would arrange for the transportation of the minor on sex dates and collect payments from the minor victims, according to claims submitted to the federal court.

A search of Patterson’s cellular device revealed images and a video which contained child sexual abusive material, which Patterson had created depicting one of the minor victims he trafficked, according to a charging statement. Sumpter Township Police and federal task force agents arrested Patterson last week, according to a statement from the federal authorities.

“The Sumpter Township Police Department extends its sincere appreciation to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for their dedicated efforts and professionalism in successfully identifying and apprehending Patterson, a resident of Sumpter, for the alleged crimes stated in the complaint,” commented Luke. “The commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and pursuing justice has a direct and meaningful impact on the safety and well-being of our residents. We remain steadfast in our shared mission to safeguard our community from those who seek to do harm” Luke continued.

“These alleged crimes are disgusting,” commented Gorgon. “SEMTEC is designed to hunt down sex traffickers who try to sell our children. And we are honored to do this good work with our federal, state and local partners,” he added.

Federal agents and Luke requested anyone with information about this case or who may be a victim call the FBI at (313) 965-2323.

 Suspect facing charges in Sumpter shooting death

The office of the Wayne County Prosecutor has charged Jordan DeJuan Winn in the death of a Sumpter Township woman last week.

According to police reports, Sumpter Township officers responded to a report of a shooting at about 4:10 p.m. last Wednesday, March 18. Upon arrival at the Edgewood Rive location in the Rawsonville Woods Mobile Home, responding officers discovered a 20-year-old woman lying in the street with a gunshot wound to her upper torso. While emergency lifesaving measures were administered, the woman died at the scene.

Police said the suspected shooter, rumored to be the victim’s boyfriend, was arrested and two other individuals were detained for questioning. The victim and the detainees know each other, according to police who stressed there was no ongoing threat to the community.

Winn was arraigned Sunday on weapons charges including careless discharge causing injury of death. He was given a $10,000 personal bond and required to wear a tether. His next court appearance is set for March 31 at 34^th District Court.

Plans for new Ann Arbor Road LaFontaine dealership OK’d

Members of the Plymouth Township Board of Trustees will soon consider a plan for the development of a new LaFontaine Chevrolet dealership at the former site of Bennigan’s restaurant on Ann Arbor Road.

Plans for the new construction include a full-service dealership building along with a detailing and storage building and large lot for vehicles. The site plan was approved by a 5-2 vote of the Plymouth Township Planning Commission during the March 18 meeting. The approval is contingent on lighting adjustments, contributions to the township tree fund and changes to the façade on one of the buildings, requested by planning commissioners.

Max Muncey, corporate communications director for LaFontaine, said the goal is to make the new building the “Number one Chevrolet dealership in the entire world.”

LaFontaine acquired the former Lou LaRiche Chevrolet dealership in 2023 and that Plymouth Road building will remain open and will be used for vehicle service, used vehicle sales and internal operations, Muncey said.

Construction for the new facility will be completed in

two three phases, according to plans submitted to the planning commissioners. First, a new 52,000 square foot dealership building will be construction on the 3.5 acres of property on Ann Arbor Road. Following will be the construction of a 22,000 square foot detailing and storage building and vehicle lot on 9.5 acres behind the dealership building.

Some existing trees will be preserved, and a 60-foot buffer and new landscaping are planned to protect residential neighbors from noise and lighting at the building. Gary Laundroche, corporate facilities manager for LaFontaine, said the plan submitted met all township ordinance requirements and incorporates changes to accommodate concerns of nearby neighbors. He noted the buffer increased, a dumpster enclosure moved, landscaping added and noise reducing features were in the revised plans submitted.

No planned date for construction was announced as the plans now move forward for consideration by the board of trustees.