Scottie Scheffler, the top-ranked golfer globally, has had all charges against him dropped following an incident with a Louisville police officer during the PGA Championship earlier this month.
Charges Dismissed Following Widespread Criticism
Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell moved to dismiss all charges in a courtroom at the Hall of Justice in Louisville. The decision came after significant backlash over the handling of Scheffler’s arrest by Louisville officials.
National Media Storm Erupts
The altercation on May 17 between the renowned golfer and a Louisville Metro Police detective sparked national attention after eyewitnesses reported the incident. Subsequently, officials confirmed the confrontation.
Details of the Arrest
According to an arrest citation, Scheffler allegedly disregarded instructions from Detective Bryan Gillis while attempting to navigate past a traffic congestion resulting from a fatal collision on Shelbyville Road near Valhalla Golf Club.
During the encounter, police claim Scheffler “accelerated forward, pulling Gillis to the ground,” leading to injuries including pain, swelling, and abrasions to Gillis’s left wrist and knee.
Arrest and Release
Scheffler was taken into custody at 6:20 a.m. and charged with second-degree assault, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and failure to obey signals from a traffic officer. However, he was soon released on personal recognizance and returned to Valhalla Golf Club, where he described the incident as a “misunderstanding.”
Protocol Violation by Officer
Following the arrest, it was confirmed that Detective Gillis had breached departmental protocol by not activating his body camera during the confrontation. An internal investigation by the LMPD found that Gillis was required to undergo counseling from a member of his command staff.
By: Rachel Smith
Title: Scottie Scheffler Cleared of Charges after Louisville Arrest at PGA Championship
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/05/29/scottie-scheffler-arrest-pga-champioship-all-charges-dropped/
Published Date: Wed, 29 May 2024 17:35:04 +0000
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