Detroit police officer arraigned on misdemeanor in death of motorcyclist

ROSEVILLE — A Detroit Police Department officer was arraigned on a misdemeanor Feb. 24 in connection with the death of a motorcyclist last August.

Corey Siquan Jones, 28, allegedly stopped at a red light and then drove through it on his way to work Aug. 16, striking Evan Newman, a 27-year-old motorcyclist. Newman died at the scene of the crash. A press release from the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office states that Newman was traveling lawfully through a green light at the intersection of Interstate 94 and 12 Mile Road. Jones resigned from the Detroit Police Department last December, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.

The Roseville Police Department presented the case to the Prosecutor’s Office Feb. 12. Charges were approved the same day. Jones faces a charge of moving violation causing death, a one-year misdemeanor. Jones was arraigned Feb. 21 in 39A District Court by District Court Judge Alyia Hakim. Hakim set a $5,000 personal bond for Jones.

A second press release sent by the Prosecutor’s Office explains the charge Jones faces.

“Michigan law provides for moving violation causing death, a one-year misdemeanor, and reckless driving causing death, a 15-year felony, but nothing in between when there is no proof of drugs or alcohol,” the release states.

The release goes on to state that Jones was not under the influence, passing sobriety tests the day of the crash.

“The prosecutor’s office determined he was not driving recklessly, was not driving with willful and wanton disregard, nor was he driving with more than simple carelessness,” the release states.

“This tragic case is a reminder of how a simple traffic violation can have devastating consequences,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido said in a press release. “A life was lost, and a family is now left to grieve an unimaginable loss. Our Major Crimes Unit thoroughly reviewed this matter, and the charge reflects the appropriate course of justice under the law.  However, no legal outcome can ever replace a loved one. If you believe stricter penalties are necessary to prevent future tragedies, we encourage you to contact your legislators and advocate for change.”

Jones’ attorney, Vincent Toussaint, said “no comment” when reached for this story.

A probable cause conference is scheduled to take place at 8:30 a.m. March 5 via Zoom.