JSO Releases Internal Affairs Investigation Report for February 19th Traffic Stop
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is releasing the disposition related to an Internal Affairs investigation into Officer Donald Bowers’ actions during a traffic stop on February 19, 2025, which resulted in the arrest of William Anthony McNeil, Jr. In August 2025, the State
Attorney’s Office ruled that the officer’s actions during the traffic stop were lawful and that no criminal charges would be filed against him.
Upon completion of the state’s criminal investigation, JSO launched its internal investigation into potential policy violations. Consistent with Sheriff T.K. Waters’ vow of transparency, JSO is now releasing the Internal Affairs investigation’s findings to the public.
For the administrative charge of Unnecessary Force, Bowers was exonerated.
The administrative charge of Failure to Conform to Work Standards was sustained due to Bowers failing to include the initial strike to Mr. McNeil in his Response to Resistance report. As a result, Bowers was issued a
Written Reprimand Level 1. His law enforcement authority has been restored now that the investigation is complete.
To access the full report from the administrative investigation, please visit the
Published Media Requests page on JSO's Public Records Portal and search " M498365" in the Reference No. section.