Florida Man Files Lawsuit After Viral Traffic Stop Where Officers Punched Him in the Face

Lawsuit Filed Against Sheriff and City of Jacksonville

A 22-year-old Florida man, who gained widespread attention after video footage showed police breaking his car window and repeatedly punching him in the face during a traffic stop, has filed a civil lawsuit against the city of Jacksonville and the sheriff’s office.

The lawsuit was filed by William McNeil Jr., who alleges that the incident left him with several injuries, including what he describes as an ongoing traumatic brain injury.

The Traffic Stop Incident

McNeil, who is Black, was pulled over in February by Jacksonville officer Donald Bowers. He began recording the encounter on his phone when officers shattered his car window and violently pulled him out of the vehicle.

The lawsuit states that McNeil was struck in the face by Officer Bowers while still seated in his car, despite posing no immediate threat. It further alleges that after being dragged from the vehicle, McNeil was punched again and had his head forcefully slammed onto the pavement.

Injuries and Claims of Excessive Force

As a result of the altercation, McNeil sustained cuts to his chin and lip, a fractured tooth, and head injuries. Medical reports later confirmed a diagnosis of a continuing traumatic brain injury.

The complaint argues that Bowers acted with unnecessary violence and that McNeil never resisted or posed any danger. It also claims that the sheriff’s office enforces a policy permitting excessive use of force through so-called “distractionary blows” — physical strikes that officers are not always required to report if they are not said to have caused injuries.

Allegations Against Law Enforcement Policy

According to the filing, Sheriff Thomas Waters and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office allow practices that create an environment where officers can use illegal or excessive force without fear of repercussions or accountability.

The lawsuit points to a system that allegedly enables officers to withhold reporting such incidents, further shielding them from consequences.

Damages Sought and Broader Context

McNeil is seeking $200,000 in damages from the city, the sheriff, and Officer Bowers. While the Florida State Attorney’s Office concluded earlier that no criminal laws were broken and declined to pursue charges against the officers, McNeil maintains that the incident caused lasting harm.

His attorney has emphasized that McNeil was frightened during the encounter, noting that young men of color often feel a heightened fear of police interactions.

Next Steps

The lawsuit now places a spotlight on law enforcement practices in Jacksonville and raises questions about the use of force, accountability, and the policies that govern officer behavior during routine stops.