Lansing jail
employee accused
of falsifying breath
test

LANSING — An employee of the Lansing Police Department’s jail has been charged with falsifying a breath test for a man she knows, officials said.

Detention Officer Beth Rios, 51, was arraigned today in 54A District Court on a felony conspiracy charge. A preliminary hearing, which determines if there is enough evidence for a trial, is set for Aug. 9. She is free on a personal recognizance bond.

The man, 32-year-old Joel Bedell of Lansing, was arraigned today on the same charge. He also is free on bond. The offense date is June 6, court records show. Officials would not comment on specifics.

Last month, Rios was placed on paid administrative leave, as an investigation was under way by Michigan State Police.

“The allegation against D.O. Rios in this matter is disappointing and if the allegation is found to be true, it will not be tolerated by the Lansing Police Department,” Chief Teresa Szymanski said in a statement.

The department’s Internal Affairs Unit will determine if Rios’ actions should lead to penalties, which could range from counseling to firing.

Detention officers are city employees, not sworn police officers.

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