© 2024 MICHIGAN PUBLIC
91.7 Ann Arbor/Detroit 104.1 Grand Rapids 91.3 Port Huron 89.7 Lansing 91.1 Flint
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

'Open carry' activists face felony charges for Dearborn police station incident

James Craig Baker (r), a 24 yr. old Leonard resident. And Brandon Vreeland (l), a 40 yr. old Jackson resident are facing felony charges, including carrying a concealed weapon, resisting arrest, and disturbing the peace.
Dearborn Police Department
James Craig Baker (r), a 24 yr. old Leonard resident. And Brandon Vreeland (l), a 40 yr. old Jackson resident are facing felony charges, including carrying a concealed weapon, resisting arrest, and disturbing the peace.

Two men who walked into a Michigan police station carrying guns and wearing body armor are facing felony charges.

James Baker and Brandon Vreeland wanted to make a point about their right to openly carry firearms when they walked into the Dearborn Police Department earlier this month.

They are now facing felony charges, including carrying a concealed weapon, resisting arrest, and disturbing the peace. They were arraigned today. 

They broadcast their February 5th encounter with Dearborn police live on Facebook.

"The ultimate objective is public safety for everyone, including police officers," says Dearborn Police Chief Ronald Haddad.

Michigan Open Carry, a group that advocates for openly carrying firearms, distanced itself from the pair saying in part their actions were “reckless.”

Baker and Vreeland are due back in court next month.  

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
Related Content