Convicted murderer nominated for police board by Detroit mayor withdraws from consideration

Detroit mayor’s nominee to police board withdraws

DETROIT — A convicted murderer who was nominated by Detroit Mayor Dave Bing to a board that disciplines police officers has withdrawn from consideration for the post.

The Detroit Free Press reports that 35-year-old Raphael B. Johnson made the announcement Wednesday night.

Word of the planned nomination this summer rankled some current and former officers who said adding him to the panel would send the wrong message.

Johnson’s supporters said he was an inspiration because he’s turned his life around after serving 12 years for a killing he committed as a youth. Johnson was convicted of second-degree murder in 1992.

Bing and acting Police Chief Ralph Godbee offered their support to Johnson following his nomination.

Information from: Detroit Free Press, www.freep.com