Jacksonville, Fla. — A shocking video of a Jacksonville traffic stop has ignited national outrage after showing deputies smashing a car window, punching the driver, and dragging him from his vehicle.
The driver, 22-year-old William McNeil Jr., was pulled over in early September for alleged violations including driving without headlights and not wearing a seatbelt. McNeil recorded much of the encounter on his phone, and the footage quickly spread across social media, raising questions about police use of force and racial profiling.
The Viral Video
The video begins with McNeil calmly questioning officers about the reason for the stop. He asks for a supervisor and remains in the driver’s seat. Moments later, a deputy can be seen smashing his window, striking him repeatedly, and pulling him from the car. McNeil’s young child was reportedly inside the vehicle at the time of the arrest.
Witnesses described the arrest as “unprovoked and excessive”, while civil rights advocates condemned what they see as another troubling case of police aggression against a Black man.
Injuries and Aftermath
McNeil’s attorneys, including well-known civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, said he suffered a concussion, chipped teeth, and required stitches following the incident. They also noted the severe emotional toll the arrest has taken, pointing out that McNeil now struggles with anxiety and fear when driving.
“William was not a threat to anyone. He was calm, he was recording, and for that he was beaten and humiliated,” Crump said in a statement. “This is exactly why we demand accountability.”
Injuries and Aftermath
McNeil’s attorneys, including well-known civil rights lawyer Ben Crump, said he suffered a concussion, chipped teeth, and required stitches following the incident. They also noted the severe emotional toll the arrest has taken, pointing out that McNeil now struggles with anxiety and fear when driving.
“William was not a threat to anyone. He was calm, he was recording, and for that he was beaten and humiliated,” Crump said in a statement. “This is exactly why we demand accountability.”
Below you can find police bodycam footage!!