JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A deputy seen on video punching a Livingstone College student during a traffic stop in Jacksonville, Florida, will not face charges, according to prosecutors.
The viral video of the incident, which occurred on February 19, shows William McNeil Jr. being pulled from his car by officers.
Prosecutors claim the video does not capture the full context of the stop.
DeAnna Taylor, a Charlotte attorney, advises drivers who are afraid when stopped by police to pull over into a well-lit area and comply with commands, arguing about them later in court.
The State Attorney’s Office report reveals that officers had additional reasons for stopping McNeil.
His car was seen at a house under surveillance for drug activity, which contributed to the decision to pull him over.
Officers initially stopped McNeil for driving without headlights in bad weather and not wearing a seatbelt, although McNeil disputes the weather conditions and refused to exit his vehicle.
Officers said McNeil was reaching for a knife they later found on the car floor.
McNeil’s lawyers are calling for the Justice Department to investigate the incident, stating that McNeil suffered a concussion, a chipped tooth, and required nine stitches.
The officer involved in the incident is undergoing an administrative review to determine if his actions violated policy.
McNeil has pleaded guilty to resisting arrest and driving with a suspended license.
VIDEO: Livingstone College president stands with student punched by officer in viral video
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