[PHOTO: Ben Jared]
The officers who arrested Scottie Scheffler will be investigated to see if they followed protocol, according to Louisville’s mayor.
After Scheffler’s arrest at the PGA Championship, Mayor Craig Greenberg acknowledged that detective Bryan Gillis didn’t have his body camera activated during the incident. According to Louisville Metro Police policy, officers must turn on their body cameras before “engaging in all law enforcement activities and encounters”. At a weekly press conference in Kentucky on Tuesday, Greenberg said questions remain on why Gillis didn’t have the camera on.
“I think that’s critically important that we do that [investigate], not just in high-profile events like took place on Friday, but on a regular basis,” Greenberg said. “And if policies are not being followed, there will be transparency about that. There will be action taken.”
Greenberg added that Louisville Metro Police chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel would address the matter later in the week, including if the Professional Standards Unit investigation – Louisville’s internal affairs arm tasked with investigating policy breaches – will be involved. “The internal investigation is still ongoing,” Gwinn-Villaroel said in a statement. “Any policy violations that are revealed through the course of the investigation will be appropriately addressed according to LMPD’s disciplinary protocol.”
Scheffler’s arraignment was originally scheduled for today, US time, but was pushed back until June 3. Scheffler’s attorney Steve Romines has told multiple news outlets that Scheffler will enter a not guilty plea.
Scheffler was arrested on Friday morning outside Valhalla Golf Club ahead of the second round of the PGA Championship and charged with second-degree assault of a police officer, criminal mischief and reckless driving. Scheffler is alleged to have driven past a police officer against the officer’s instructions while trying to enter the club. Scheffler called the incident a misunderstanding, although a police report states that Gillis was dragged by Scheffler’s car, which led to injury and damage of Gillis’ pants. Scheffler’s lawyer disputed the nature of the incident.
“[Scheffler] was proceeding as directed by another traffic officer and driving a marked player’s vehicle with credentials visible,” Romines said. “In the confusion, Scottie is alleged to have disregarded a different officer’s traffic signals resulting in these charges. Multiple eyewitnesses have confirmed that he did not do anything wrong but was simply proceeding as directed. He stopped immediately upon being directed to and never at any point assaulted any officer with his vehicle. We will litigate this matter as needed and he will be completely exonerated.”
Scheffler returned to Valhalla after his arrest and turned in a second-round 66, although he followed that with a 73 while admitting the chaotic situation had worn him down. Scheffler bounced back with a final-round 65, ultimately finishing in a tie for eighth.
