Officers who hit fans at Florida-Georgia game were 'within policy,' sheriff says

SUMMARY

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters announced that officers involved in altercations with fans at the Florida-Georgia football game acted within policy, despite the use of force captured in viral videos. During a press conference, he released body camera footage to provide context, stating that while the force may seem "ugly," it was lawful. Four men were arrested, including Walter Brown, who allegedly pushed a stadium worker and attempted to bring un-ticketed children into the venue. After refusing to leave, Brown was confronted by officers, resulting in a struggle where he was struck and tased. He allegedly made threats during the altercation. Sheriff Waters asserted that the officers' actions were 'appropriate' and defended them against accusations of misconduct, suggesting that the videos circulating on social media lacked important context.