JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Protesters from several Jacksonville organizations made their voices heard in response to the viral arrest video that has sparked local and national outrage since it was posted on Sunday.
“No justice! No Peace!” echoed in front of city hall on Tuesday, and demonstrators had a clear message for Sheriff T.K. Waters.
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“T.K. Waters shame! Shame! All these crimes in your name!”
The demonstration comes after JSO officer D.J. Bowers, whose body camera footage was shown in a news conference, was seen breaking a car window and hitting a man in his face twice after pulling him over for not having his headlights.
RELATED: Viral traffic stop marks second time in 6 months JSO officer investigated for use of force
Waters faced mounting criticism over his handling of Monday’s news conference, where his responses to questions about the incident sparked additional controversy.
“You blame that young man for not coming to you to report this, but you say you hold your officers to a high standard, so why didn’t the officer go self-report themselves?” Denise Scott said.
Protesters criticized Waters’ leadership style and communication approach, with several participants describing his responses as evasive and inadequate.
“I don’t think he meaningfully answered any questions,” said Monica Gold.
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Tracy Karpas, another protest participant, expressed skepticism about Waters’ explanations: “He seemed evasive. Very general answers. I’m not buying any of it.”
Franklin Perez, who traveled from Orlando to join the protest, called the sheriff’s response “disgusting” and cited a lack of accountability for officers.
Demonstrators planned to gather in front of JSO’s headquarters for another protest on Saturday at 5 p.m.