Orlando Police Officer Arrested After Fleeing the Scene During Speeding Stop, Caught on Body Cam
A heated confrontation unfolded between a Florida sheriff’s deputy and an Orlando police officer when the deputy stopped the officer for alleged speeding in a marked police SUV. The incident, captured on a body camera, escalated as the officer drove off from the scene, ultimately leading to his arrest. This article will provide details of the encounter, the subsequent charges faced by the officer, and the response from the Orlando Police Department.
Orlando Police Officer Arrested
On June 6, a Seminole County sheriff’s deputy on patrol pulled over Orlando Police Officer Alexander Shaouni for driving nearly twice the speed limit along a road. The body cam footage revealed Shaouni, 35, dressed in his police uniform and driving a marked Orlando Police Department SUV. Upon stepping out of his cruiser, Shaouni expressed confusion and questioned why he was being pulled over, stating that he was on his way to work. The deputy informed Shaouni that he was being stopped for driving at 80 mph in a 45 mph zone.
The arrest report states that when asked for his driver’s license, Shaouni responded with a firm “No” and returned to his police SUV. He then left the scene with the cruiser’s flashing lights activated, despite the deputy’s statement that he initially observed Shaouni speeding without the emergency lights engaged.
Arrest and Charges
Following the incident, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office contacted the Orlando Police Department, informing them of Shaouni’s criminal charges. The Orlando Police Department promptly released a statement announcing Shaouni’s relief from duty pending both the sheriff’s office’s criminal investigation and an internal affairs investigation conducted by the department.
Court records from Seminole County Circuit Court indicate that Shaouni was subsequently arrested and charged with several misdemeanors, including speeding, reckless driving, and resisting an officer. Additionally, he faces a felony charge for fleeing from law enforcement. To secure his release, Shaouni posted a $9,000 bond.
Orlando Police Department’s Response
According to USA Today, The Orlando Police Department declined to provide further information about Officer Shaouni, including his length of service with the department. However, they assured the public that the case would be thoroughly investigated by both internal affairs and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office.
The department’s swift action in relieving Shaouni of duty demonstrates their commitment to upholding professional standards and addressing alleged misconduct within their ranks. The internal investigation will likely evaluate the circumstances surrounding the incident, adherence to departmental policies, and any potential disciplinary measures.
