Former Warren police officer found not guilty

Mount Clemens, MI – Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido announced that today, following a jury trial, 30-year-old James Burke, a former Warren police officer, was found not guilty on all charges, including two counts of manslaughter, by a Macomb County jury. The charges stem from a September 2024 car crash that resulted in the deaths of two men and severe injuries to his former partner. 

"We respect the jury's verdict and thank the jurors for their service," said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido. "Our office pursued this case based on the evidence and presented the facts for the jury's consideration. While the jury reached a different conclusion than the prosecution advocated, we remain committed to seeking justice on behalf of victims and their families. We are mindful of the profound loss suffered in this case and extend our continued thoughts and support to those affected."

On Thursday, June 11, 2026, Burke was found not guilty of the following charges:

COUNT ONE: Homicide – Manslaughter with Motor Vehicle, a 15-year-felony

COUNT TWO: Homicide – Manslaughter with Motor Vehicle, a 15-year-felony

COUNT THREE: Moving Violation Causing Serious Impairment of a Body Function, a 93-day misdemeanor

COUNT FOUR: Public Officers – Willful Neglect of Duty, a 1-year misdemeanor.

According to evidence presented from law enforcement at trial, on September 30, 2024, Burke was operating his patrol vehicle at a high rate of speed without emergency lights or siren activated when it crashed with another vehicle. Burke's partner was injured in the crash, and 34-year-old Cedric Hayden Jr. and 33-year-old Dejuan Pettis were killed.

The Macomb County Prosecutor's Office represents the People. We are committed to achieving justice and following the laws of the State of Michigan. All that are accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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