Michigan City Official Faces Assault and Domestic Violence Charges
A city official in Michigan, who heads a nonprofit and had his felony records cleared under laws supported by Democrats, is now dealing with serious allegations of assault and domestic violence.
Leon El Alamin was arrested by Morris Township Police on July 15, facing both felony and misdemeanor charges, as noted in court records. Once a strong advocate for criminal justice reforms, particularly those aimed at addressing “massive incarceration,” El Alamin gained media attention after benefiting from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s “Clean Slate” initiative. This program was designed to help individuals clear their criminal records and start anew.
Images shared on Instagram in 2024 depict El Alamin meeting influential figures like Whitmer and New Jersey Senator Cory Booker, as well as attending events supporting Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. His city council victory in November 2024 became significant, given its implications for managing millions in housing and federal Covid-19 relief funds.
El Alamin responded to the allegations, stating on social media that while he feels discouraged, he believes in the truth and the legal process. He expressed confidence that his legal team will help clear his name.
Attempts to reach Whitmer’s office for comments have gone unanswered, as have inquiries to Booker’s team.
Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed’s campaign expressed concern upon learning of the allegations. A spokesperson stated they cannot comment on ongoing legal matters but emphasized that domestic violence contradicts their values, underscoring their commitment to supporting survivors and distancing from anyone found guilty of such actions.
In past interviews, El Alamin has shared his journey from a troubled youth involved in crime to becoming a community leader. He founded the MADE Institute to provide educational support for young people from challenging backgrounds. The institute has also offered legal guidance on child support issues.
El Alamin has a history of serving prison time for drug and weapon offenses and was initially ineligible for expungement before the 2020 Clean Slate legislation. He has since become an outspoken critic of strict punitive measures within the criminal justice system.
The Clean Slate initiative allows individuals with certain felony and misdemeanor records to have them erased, although there are exceptions for serious offenses. The waiting period for expungement varies based on the severity of the crime.
According to Genesee County Prosecutor David Layton, the alleged victim accused El Alamin of physical assault, including suffocation and punching, leading to visible injuries. She reportedly described him as her long-term partner and expressed anger during an argument related to watching an email.
If convicted, El Alamin could face significant jail time for the assault and domestic violence charges. Court records show he was given a bond amount of $7,500. Additionally, allegations arose that he held firearm permits despite prior felony convictions.
In a broader context, El Alamin has been involved in advocating for legislation that prohibits landlords from considering an applicant’s criminal history in rental screenings, a bill that passed in March. His office has referred to individuals with criminal records as “justice-involved people.”
Previously, he was appointed to the Flint Housing Committee but resigned in early 2023. Federal records indicate that over $19 million has been allocated for projects under his committee since 2023, with a total of more than $218 million awarded historically. He was also part of a committee to decide how to distribute federal Covid-19 relief funding.
Addressing the situation, Prosecutor Layton emphasized that regardless of El Alamin’s public persona, the focus remains on justice for victims of domestic violence.
“In my two decades of work, we vigorously prosecute those who harm women,” Layton remarked, stressing the seriousness of the matter.
