MI House Passes Hoskins’ Bill to Honor Deputy Claude Wilson with Southfield Highway Designation
Press Release | State Rep. Jason Hoskins
LANSING, Mich., May 15, 2026 — Yesterday, The Michigan House of Representatives passed House Bill 5636, sponsored by state Rep. Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield), to designate a portion of US-24 (Telegraph Road) between 9 Mile Road and 14 Mile Road in Southfield as the “Deputy Claude Wilson Memorial Highway.”
“Deputy Claude Wilson’s life reflects extraordinary courage, resilience, and service in the face of unimaginable adversity. He broke barriers as the first African-American deputy in Oakland County, survived a violent attack that would have ended most careers, and still chose to return to protect his community. His story is one of sacrifice and determination, and this memorial highway ensures that his legacy is never forgotten,” Hoskins said.
Deputy Claude Wilson, the first African-American deputy in Oakland County history, served with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office from 1925 to 1935. Before joining law enforcement, Wilson worked as an electrician, reflecting a life of skilled trade and public service.
Wilson’s career was marked by extraordinary resilience. He survived a line-of-duty shooting in which he was struck in the face while attempting to recover stolen property, resulting in the loss of one eye. Following his recovery, he returned to full-time duty in 1933. He was later quoted as saying, “It’s all in the game; I’ll be back in the harness in a short time.”
Deputy Wilson was killed in the line of duty at age 47, following a crash involving a drunk driver while on routine patrol in Southfield Township. According to testimony, his vehicle was struck by an impaired driver, causing the car to roll twice. The memorial highway designation will ensure Deputy Wilson is remembered and honored for his service and courage.
House Bill 5636 now advances to the Michigan Senate for consideration.
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