Allegations of retaliation against two decorated former police officers for raising concerns about abusive policing practices have led to a federal lawsuit that challenges the actions of a local municipality and its law enforcement leadership. The suit claims that protected speech about matters of public concern resulted in investigations, disciplinary actions, forced retirement, and termination.
The complaint was filed by Neil Hunter and Jorden Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan on April 15, 2026. The defendants named are the City of Wyandotte, former Chief of Police Brian Zalewski in his individual capacity, and current Chief Archie Hamilton in both his individual and official capacities.
According to the filing, both plaintiffs had long-standing careers with the Wyandotte Police Department. Neil Hunter served as a lieutenant for 25 years and was twice honored as Officer of the Year. Jorden Judge worked as an officer for approximately nine years—six with Wyandotte—and received several commendations including Officer of the Year in 2019. Both were recognized by their peers and superiors for professionalism and dedication prior to their departures from the department.
The complaint outlines that around 2022, under then-Deputy Chief Hamilton (later Chief) and then-Chief Zalewski, there was a shift in departmental culture that concerned Hunter and Judge. They observed what they describe as “abusive and unlawful police practices,” such as excessive force, unwarranted stops and searches, escalation during encounters, and inaccuracies in police reports. The document states that both officers discussed these issues privately among themselves as well as with others inside and outside their official duties.
Specific incidents cited include an assault on an unarmed detainee by another officer in 2023—an event witnessed by both plaintiffs via video footage—which allegedly involved false reporting by the officer involved. Judge reportedly took her concerns further by contacting WXYZ Channel 7 to suggest Freedom of Information Act requests regarding multiple incidents involving alleged misconduct. She also reported her observations to the Michigan Attorney General’s office.
Upon learning that someone had contacted media outlets regarding these events, Zalewski and Hamilton initiated internal investigations aimed at identifying the source. The filing describes confrontations between leadership and Hunter regarding suspected media contact; although Hunter denied being responsible for leaks to reporters or state officials, he became subject to investigation along with another officer who had expressed similar concerns about departmental conduct.
Judge admitted during questioning that she had communicated with both media representatives and state authorities after initially denying involvement out of fear of retribution—a fear later deemed justified by an arbitrator who found her initial denial was made under duress rather than intent to deceive.
Disciplinary measures followed: On April 11, 2024, Judge was terminated from her position due to what defendants described as “malicious” actions perceived as attacks on administration. Her personnel file retained documentation reflecting termination despite subsequent agreements requiring its removal—a point central to her breach-of-contract claim against the city. Meanwhile, Hunter received written reprimands which were noted would remain permanently in his file; he alleges this discipline was not due to alleged name-calling but because he spoke up about excessive force cases.
Hunter later retained legal counsel after being placed on administrative leave following notification to city officials regarding representation—a move he contends was retaliatory given prior disciplinary history tied to his speech activities. Facing potential loss of retirement benefits if terminated outright amid ongoing investigations, Hunter chose early retirement on September 16, 2025.
The lawsuit asserts violations under federal civil rights statutes related to First Amendment protections: “Plaintiffs have a First Amendment right to speak…about the commission of unlawful, abusive policing.” It further claims municipal policies suppress free speech among officers who challenge or report unconstitutional behavior within law enforcement ranks.
In addition to constitutional claims brought by both plaintiffs against all defendants for retaliation—including lost employment opportunities—the suit includes separate counts for breach of contract (regarding settlement terms related to Judge’s resignation status) against the city itself; it also accuses Chief Hamilton individually of negligence for failing statutory duties required under Michigan law concerning accurate reporting to licensing authorities (MCOLES).
The relief sought includes lost wages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorney fees and costs, along with any other equitable or legal remedies deemed appropriate by the court.
Attorney Nakisha N. Chaney from Salvatore Prescott Porter & Porter PLLC represents both plaintiffs in this case (Case No. 2:26-cv-11227).
Source: 226cv11227_Neil_Hunter_v_City_of_WYandotte_Complaint_Eastern_District_of_Michigan.pdf
