© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Lansing police lieutenant faces criminal charges

close up of blue and red police lights on the top of a police car
Scott Rodgerson
/
Unsplash
A Lansing Police Department lieutenant is on unpaid leave after being charged with a felony.

A Lansing police lieutenant is facing criminal charges.

The Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office filed charges against Lieutenant Ryan Wilcox following a probe by the Michigan State Police, according to a news release from Lansing Police Chief Rob Backus.

Wilcox is being charged with a felony: one count of false pretenses with intent to defraud, for an amount more than $1,000, but less than $20,000.

Backus says Wilcox was on paid administrative leave while under investigation; now that charges have been filed he's on unpaid leave.

In the news release, Backus called the accusations, “deeply disturbing.”

"We remain committed to maintaining the trust of our community through transparency and accountability," Backus added.

When asked for details about the alleged crime, a spokesperson for the chief said he would not be doing interviews related to Wilcox.

A call to Wilcox’s attorney wasn’t immediately returned on Wednesday.

Produced with assistance from the Public Media Journalists Association Editor Corps funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, a private corporation funded by the American people.

Support Local Journalism in Mid-Michigan

WKAR delivers fact-based, independent journalism—free and accessible to all. No paywalls, no corporate influence—just trusted reporting that keeps our community informed. Your support makes this possible. Donate today.