Florida State Attorney Defends Cop's Punch of Black Student in Car as 'Tactical' Decision

Attorneys representing a Black college student, William McNeil Jr., are calling on the Department of Justice to examine a traffic stop incident in Jacksonville, Florida, where he was assaulted by deputies. Recently, the Florida State Attorney’s Office cleared the involved officers of any criminal behavior, leading to public outcry.On February 19, bodycam footage revealed disturbing interactions between McNeil and sheriff’s deputies, who shattered his driver’s side window and physically assaulted him despite his non-resistance. Eyewitness video further fueled outrage, as it showed the deputies’ escalating violence.State prosecutors stated that Officer D. Bowers initiated the stop due to McNeil’s seatbelt violation and claimed he feared for his safety when McNeil didn’t exit the vehicle. The officers’ attempts to control the situation were described as tactical, despite failing to interview McNeil during their investigation.McNeil’s legal team argues that the State Attorney’s memorandum simply rationalizes excessive force and highlights oversights regarding injuries sustained during the confrontation. (Photo: Atlanta Black Star)