Deputy Faces No Consequences After Assaulting Black College Student During Traffic Stop

Florida prosecutors have decided not to file charges against the sheriff’s deputy involved in the violent arrest of William McNeil Jr., a 22-year-old Black college student, as reported by Newsone. McNeil was stopped on February 19 for allegedly failing to use his headlights and not wearing a seatbelt. A now-famous video depicted McNeil questioning the stop and requesting to speak to a supervisor before Officer D. Bowers smashed his window, removed him from the vehicle, and struck him in the face.McNeil sustained injuries including a concussion, a broken tooth, and cuts to his face but faced no charges. Attorneys Ben Crump and Harry Daniels described the traffic stop as “dehumanizing,” highlighting the inappropriate response to a dubious claim about headlights. Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters defended the officers, dismissing racially charged accusations. The State Attorney’s Office determined Bowers acted lawfully, although a review of his conduct remains ongoing, and no disciplinary action has yet been taken. McNeil's legal team intends to pursue a civil lawsuit, seeking federal accountability.