Michigan state police director apologizes to Arab community

Michigan State Police Director Michael Robinson apologized to Metro Detroit Arab leaders regarding a "misleading" report that was released last week suggesting that there are 374 "potential threats elements" in the state including 28 terrorist groups.

The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) said in a statement, the contents of the report place the Arab-American community, particularly in Michigan, under unwarranted inspection.

Arab and Muslim Americans have been facing increased scrutiny by authorities since September 11. The release of this report adds to the pressure that these communities have been facing and makes them subject to unfair treatment by fellow Americans, ADC complained.

"I recognize that as citizens of this state, they obviously need our protection," explained Col. Robinson prior to his meeting with the Arab community leaders at the State Police District Headquarters in Northville, Michigan. The meeting was prompted by the unauthorized release of information to various media outlets including Newsweek magazine.

Following the meeting, the State Police drafted an official statement clarifying the State Domestic Preparedness Strategy. The statement emphasized that the inference that "potential threat elements are all groups or individuals with ties to the Arab American community is completely inaccurate. Secondly, any reports that the Dearborn community or any other community in southeast Michigan is any more prone to harbor terrorist elements is also unfair, inaccurate and irresponsible."

"We commend the Michigan State Police for their immediate attention and cooperation regarding this matter," states ADC Midwest Regional Director Imad Hamad. It is this type of response that helps us to work together productively and combat these negative occurrences."