Case against retired MSP sergeant referred to federal court

(WXMI) – A judge has ruled that the case against a retired Michigan State Police (MSP) sergeant should be removed to federal court.

Brian Keely was charged with first-degree murder in the death of Samuel Sterling on April 17.

According to the Michigan Attorney General, Keely was driving an unmarked vehicle when he fatally struck Sterling, who was wanted on multiple warrants, with his patrol car. Keely was part of a U.S. Marshals task force at the time.

Keely's defense argued that the district court proceedings should be dismissed under federal civil servant dismissal law.

The judge ruled Monday that Keely acted within federal authority during the incident, adding that Keely's defense team met the requirements to bring the case to federal court.

The case was transferred to district court last week. An order from the U.S. District Court – Western District of Michigan says Keely's case should no longer be heard in district court and asks court officials to dismiss the case.

The legal counsel of all parties must submit their statements within less than one week.

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