A shocking incident in Walbridge, Ohio, has led to the termination of Officer Michael Erwin, who allegedly responded to a service call while under the influence of alcohol. The case has raised serious questions about law enforcement accountability and maintaining public trust.
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On August 23, 2025, Officer Erwin was dispatched to assist a couple who discovered their truck door open and feared an intruder. However, upon his arrival, the couple immediately noticed something was wrong — the officer appeared intoxicated, stumbling, and unable to walk steadily.
Concerned for their safety, the couple contacted dispatch again to report Erwin’s condition. Additional officers were sent to the scene. A breathalyzer test later confirmed Erwin had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.168%, which is more than double the legal limit in Ohio.
Who is Officer Michael Erwin?
Michael Erwin was a relatively new recruit with the Walbridge Police Department, having joined the force on October 5, 2023. Despite recently completing his training, his short tenure ended abruptly due to this incident.
The department launched an immediate investigation and swiftly terminated Erwin’s employment to maintain integrity and public confidence in the police force.
Timeline of the Incident
August 23, 2025: Erwin responds to a service call while allegedly intoxicated
The couple reports suspicious behavior and requests another unit
A breath test confirms Erwin’s BAC at 0.168%
Video evidence shows Erwin stumbling and unable to maintain balance
August 25, 2025: Walbridge Mayor Edward Kolanko announces Erwin’s termination, citing the importance of trust and professionalism in law enforcement
Legal Implications and Missing Body Camera Footage
Although no formal charges have been filed yet, Erwin may face legal consequences for driving under the influence and handling a firearm while intoxicated.
Notably, Erwin was not wearing his body camera during the incident, which raises further concerns about accountability and transparency.
Public and Social Media Reaction
The public response was swift and critical. Community members expressed outrage over the risks posed by an intoxicated officer. Social media platforms were flooded with comments condemning Erwin’s actions and praising the couple for reporting the incident.
Many users called for greater transparency, stricter alcohol policies, and mandatory body camera use to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Official Statement from Walbridge Authorities
Walbridge Mayor Edward Kolanko issued a strong statement:
“The community expects honesty, capability, and integrity from us. There is zero tolerance for such behavior within our force.”
The department is currently reviewing its accountability protocols, especially concerning body camera usage, and will continue investigating the matter.
What Happens Next?
The case remains under investigation, and Erwin may face criminal charges. The Walbridge Police Department plans to implement stronger accountability measures to rebuild public trust and prevent similar incidents.
Conclusion
The firing of Officer Michael Erwin underscores the critical importance of accountability in law enforcement. Intoxicated officers not only endanger public safety but also erode trust in the system. The Walbridge Police Department’s swift action demonstrates a commitment to maintaining integrity, but the incident highlights the need for stricter policies and transparency moving forward.