Jacksonville, FL — Prosecutors in Florida have decided not to pursue charges against an officer involved in a violent traffic stop that garnered national attention earlier this year. The decision to clear Officer Donald Bowers has sparked backlash, with calls for further investigation by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
No Further Action Against Officer Bowers
On August 14, the State Attorney’s Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit of Florida announced that no further action would be taken against Officer Bowers, who was caught on video smashing the window of a driver, William McNeil Jr., and punching him in the head during a traffic stop on February 19.
“The Investigative Memo from the State Attorney’s Office… is little more than an attempt to justify the actions of Officer Bowers and his fellow officers after the fact,” said McNeil’s attorneys, Ben Crump and Harry Daniels in a joint statement.
Prosecutors concluded that Bowers’ use of force was justified, stating that McNeil, 22, had refused to exit his vehicle despite repeated commands and orders. They argued that McNeil created a dangerous situation for himself and law enforcement. However, McNeil’s legal team contends that key facts were ignored in the investigation.
Source: USA Today
The Traffic Stop and Violent Encounter
The traffic stop began when Bowers pulled McNeil over for a seatbelt violation and a headlight violation. According to the investigative memo, McNeil’s vehicle was also spotted earlier near a house under surveillance for drug activity.
Once pulled over, McNeil locked himself inside his vehicle, asking to speak with a supervisor, and refused to exit when ordered. After multiple warnings, Bowers smashed the window of McNeil’s SUV and struck him in the head. McNeil was then forcibly removed from the vehicle, and officers continued to strike him as he was brought to the ground.
Bowers described the punch as “a distractionary blow”, a tactic he claimed to have learned during his time as a narcotics officer.
McNeil’s lawyers argue that the language used in the investigative memo served to excuse unlawful use of force.
Evidence and Legal Outcomes
Following the traffic stop, a search of McNeil’s SUV turned up a knife and marijuana, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. McNeil later pleaded guilty to resisting an officer without violence and driving with a suspended license. Charges related to marijuana possession and multiple traffic violations were dismissed.
McNeil Speaks Out
McNeil and his family have publicly condemned the actions of the officers involved in the encounter. McNeil spoke at a July news conference, saying:
“That day, I just really wanted to know why I was getting pulled over, and why I needed to step out of the car. I know I didn’t do nothing wrong. I was really just scared, and that’s it.”
His stepfather, Alton Solomon, shared an emotional message, revealing how he could relate to his son’s experience:
“To see that is a hurt feeling,” Solomon said, tears in his eyes.
Public Support and Legal Fight
Since the incident, McNeil has received significant financial support. A GoFundMe campaign created to cover his medical expenses and legal fees has raised over $21,000.
What are your thoughts on the decision to clear Officer Bowers? Share your opinions in the comments.
