OTSEGO COUNTY, MI (LOOTPRESS) – A 74-year-old Michigan man has been arrested and charged with domestic violence and impersonating a police officer after authorities say he attempted to access a morgue following his wife’s death from alleged abuse.
A Tragic Discovery
The case began in June 2024 when Michigan State Police (MSP) troopers responded to a call about possible squatters in a cabin in Otsego County. Upon arrival, troopers found John D. Bromley and his 68-year-old wife living in the property without permission.
Authorities noted that Bromley’s wife displayed severe bruising and difficulty breathing. Concerned for her condition, EMS transported her to Otsego Memorial Hospital, and she was later transferred to Munson Medical Center in Traverse City for specialized care.
While at the hospital, the woman confided in investigators that she had endured a history of domestic abuse at the hands of her husband. Days later, she succumbed to her injuries.
An Unusual Attempt to Access the Morgue
Following her death, authorities say Bromley made a disturbing attempt to see his wife’s body—by impersonating a Michigan State Police trooper in an effort to gain entry to the morgue. His request was denied, and an autopsy was conducted as part of an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Arrest and Charges
After reviewing the case, the Otsego County Prosecutor’s Office issued a warrant for Bromley’s arrest, which was entered into the Law Enforcement Information Network.
Earlier this month, Bromley was pulled over for speeding in Oakland County and taken into custody. He was then transported back to Otsego County to face charges of:
- Aggravated domestic violence
- First-degree vulnerable adult abuse
- Impersonating a police officer (charged separately in Grand Traverse County)
Bromley appeared in court for arraignment this week, where a judge set his bond at $50,000. The case remains under investigation.
