OCALA, FL (352today.com) – After a jury trial this week, 30-year-old Devin Jacquan Jackson was found guilty of Felony Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer in connection to his 2023 arrest at a downtown Ocala bar. Key to the conviction was irrefutable body-worn camera footage that captured the incident in question.
“The defendant couldn’t negate the video footage presented in this case. Fortunately for us, once the jurors saw this evidence, they knew the only verdict was guilty.,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney.
Incident Details
The charges against Jackson stem from Nov. 4, 2023, when he shoved an Ocala Police Department (OPD) officer after being removed from a local bar for disorderly conduct.
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According to trial testimony, Jackson had been causing a disturbance on the second floor of the establishment, displaying aggressive behavior toward patrons. An OPD officer escorted him outside, but as they reached the sidewalk, an unknown liquid was thrown from the balcony above, landing near Jackson.
The incident escalated when Jackson, irate over the situation, attempted to force his way back inside. When the OPD officer blocked his reentry, Jackson pushed and shoved the officer in an effort to return to the bar. He was immediately arrested.
Sentencing and Prosecution
Jackson received credit for time served, along with five years of probation. As part of his sentence, he must complete alcohol and substance abuse treatment, 300 hours of community service, and pay additional court fines.
Assistant State Attorney Meredith Poisson successfully prosecuted the case.