Skip to main content
Michigan’s nonpartisan, nonprofit news source

We need your vote!

During this important election year, Bridge readers like you know that high-quality journalism like ours is more critical than ever. There’s a lot on the line, and we’re working daily to deliver the information you need to prepare you for November’s election. Can we count on your vote of confidence in our newsroom? Donate today!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate

Michigan state Rep. Neil Friske arrested, jailed in Lansing

State Rep. Neil Friske talking to other lawmakers
State Rep. Neil Friske, one of the most conservative members of the Michigan Legislature, was arrested Wednesday night. (Michigan House Republicans)
  • Michigan state Rep. Neil Friske arrested in Lansing
  • Police say arrest followed “a report of a male with a gun, as well as possible shots that were fired”
  • The Charlevoix Republican is a member of House Freedom Caucus

Michigan state Rep. Neil Friske, R-Charlevoix, was arrested in Lansing early Thursday morning and was being held in a city jail while police continued to investigate an incident that involved a firearm. 

Friske was arrested on the 2000 block of Windbreak Lane before 3:00 a.m., Lansing Police Department spokesperson Jordan Gulkis confirmed in a statement to Bridge. He owns a home there, according to property records. 

Gulkis said officers responded to “a report of a male with a gun, as well as possible shots that were fired.” Officers made contact, and Friske was arrested for a possible “felony-level offense,” she said. 

Related:

As of Thursday afternoon, Lansing police were still investigating and expected to present the case to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office for possible charges on Friday, Gulkis added. He’d likely be arraigned Friday or Saturday if charges are authorized.

Friske is one of the most conservative members of the legislature. He belongs to the chamber’s Freedom Caucus, which is notable for voting against nearly every piece of legislation that comes before them in the Democratic-led Legislature.

Friske is currently running for re-election but faces a primary challenge from fellow Republican Parker Fairbairn, a Harbor Springs small business owner.

Friske's campaign, in a statement, said it did not have any details on the arrest but noted the lawmaker "is always exercising his 2nd Amendment right."

House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, said Thursday morning that he was “informed briefly” about Friske’s arrest but had not yet had any conversations with Republican leaders about the situation.

“We're seeing what Lansing (police) will be doing with their process,” Tate said.

A spokesperson for House Minority Leader Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 

Friske runs a property management firm. He's also worked on his family farm, Friske Orchards, which was founded by his father Richard Friske, who also served in the state House for a single term in 1970.

How impactful was this article for you?

Only donate if we've informed you about important Michigan issues

See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:

  • “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
  • “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
  • “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.

If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate Now