No Charges For Florida Cop Who Punched Driver

A viral video of a Florida cop punching a driver through a window sparked public backlash and prompted an internal investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. Credit: JSO

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – The State Attorney’s Office (SAO) for Florida’s Fourth Judicial Circuit has determined that no criminal charges will be filed against Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) Officer D. Bowers following the February 19, 2025, arrest of William McNeil Jr.

In an investigative memorandum dated August 13, 2025, the SAO concluded that Bowers’ actions during the traffic stop and arrest did not constitute a crime.

The memo states that Officer Bowers observed McNeil’s SUV parked at a residence under surveillance for drug activity before initiating the stop for driving without headlights and not wearing a seatbelt.

McNeil opened his door upon approach, questioned the stop, and refused to provide his license, registration, and proof of insurance. He demanded a supervisor and, when ordered to exit, slammed and locked the door.

Over four minutes, Bowers informed McNeil he was under arrest for resisting an officer without violence and warned him multiple times about breaking the window. Backup arrived, including Officer D. Miller. Bowers broke the window, ordered McNeil to exit and show his hands, and struck him in the face with an open hand. McNeil was then pulled from the vehicle, resisted, and was punched in the chin during a five-second takedown.

A search found marijuana in McNeil’s pocket, a scale and pipe with residue in the console, a box of sugar, and a serrated knife on the floorboard. McNeil was driving on a suspended license. He pleaded guilty the next day to resisting an officer without violence and driving while license suspended.

On July 20, 2025, McNeil posted a video of part of the incident, which the memo describes as incomplete, omitting the lead-up. The SAO reviewed body camera footage, reports, interviews, and McNeil’s statements, finding Bowers issued 12 lawful commands that McNeil ignored.

The memo concludes the open-handed strike was a trained distraction tactic, and the punch responded to resistance. It refutes misinformation from press conferences, such as claims McNeil provided documents or no evidence was found.

The SAO cited legal precedents affirming the stop’s validity and lack of justification for resistance. No further action will be taken.