A virtual courtroom drama unfolded this week when an unexpected wardrobe choice by a police officer became the center of attention during a Zoom hearing. The incident took place in Detroit’s 36th District Court, where a woman was appearing on charges of drag racing.

As the proceedings commenced, District Court Judge Sean Perkins presided from his bench, overseeing the case in which the defendant was poised to plead guilty to drag racing and disorderly conduct. The arrangement included the dismissal of additional charges against her.

In this digital setting, participants included the defendant, her legal counsel, and Officer Matthew Jackson, representing the Detroit Police Department’s 12th Precinct. Everything seemed routine until Judge Perkins addressed the officer.

“Officer Jackson? Good morning to you. Can you put your appearance on the record, please?” the judge requested, inadvertently setting the stage for the unexpected reveal.

“Officer Jackson? Good morning to you. Can you put your appearance on the record, please?” Perkins asked.

In response, Jackson held up his hand and gave his name. The camera on the computer he had logged onto showed a view of him wearing a uniform shirt and badge.

That initial view of Jackson also showed his bare legs, without his uniform pants.

The defense attorney, whom one of the next camera views showed, was seen with a puzzled look on her face.

The camera view went back to the judge, who appears to have noticed the camera monitor at his desk.

“You got some pants on, officer?” the judge asked in response.

Jackson repositioned his camera closer to his face and began to say, “Sir, they’re in the …” Then he broke off that sentence and said, “No, sir.”

The judge then quickly pivoted the discussion towards the defendant, calling her name and continuing the proceedings.

The dress code for the 36th District Court says casual business attire is preferred.

The dress code prohibits wearing shorts, cutoffs, skorts “and other clothing which is not suitable in a court or any other professional environment” for a hearing.

In the aftermath of the uniform view — and subsequent attention to the video — Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison issued a statement.

“The Detroit Police Department requires its officers to represent themselves in a dignified and professional manner while attending court proceedings,” he said.

“The involved officer’s actions are not representative of the professionalism of this department and will be appropriately addressed to maintain the public confidence and efficient operation of this department.

“Our apologies are hereby extended to the judges and staff of the court, as well as anyone else who may have been in attendance during this incident.”

As for the hearing, the defendant’s charge was amended from reckless driving. She pleaded guilty and was fined $US240 upon the conclusion of the hearing, court records show.