JACKSONVILLE, Florida — A Jacksonville man has filed a federal lawsuit accusing officers with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office of using excessive force during a February traffic stop, which he says caused a traumatic brain injury and other harm, according to the suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Jacksonville Division.

William McNeil Jr. claims he was assaulted by Officer D. Bowers for driving without headlights and for not wearing a seat belt. According to the complaint, McNeil opened his car door to explain that his window was damaged and asked why he was being stopped. Bowers claimed it was due to inclement weather, though the lawsuit states there was no rain.

McNeil, questioning the legitimacy of the stop, requested a supervisor. Bowers then pl

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