A police officer in Melbourne, Florida, has resigned after a video showed him taking down the wrong 15-year-old, resulting in a broken arm. The incident occurred in June when officers were searching for a different teen. The officer, William Markle, resigned after the video footage was released, stating that he had thoroughly considered the decision and believed it was in his best interest to pursue new career opportunities.
Incident Details
According to a case report, Melbourne police said the 15-year-old, Judah Everage, did not comply with commands to lie on the ground and put his hands behind his back, and they claimed he resisted. However, body-camera footage shows Judah on his knees with his hands in the air before an officer took him to the ground and handcuffed him.
Judah’s mother, Angela Sparks, said her son was confused and tried to explain that he was not the person they were looking for. She stated that her son was simply walking home after trying to assist the police.
Officer’s Record
Markle had two notable complaints in his personnel file, including one for failing to turn on his body camera and issuing an incorrect trespass order. He also had another complaint related to a domestic incident.
Two other officers involved in the incident, Dylan Joseph and Thomas Alabise, are still on the job. The Melbourne Police Department has stated that it is conducting a full review of the incident.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.