(Marion County, FL) After a jury trial this week with irrefutable body-worn camera footage, 30-year-old Devin Jacquan Jackson was found guilty of Felony Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer related to his 2023 arrest at a local bar in downtown Ocala, FL.

“The defendant couldn’t negate the video footage presented in this case. Fortunately for us, once the jurors saw this evidence, they knew their only verdict was guilty,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney.

The case against Jackson stems from the events of November 4, 2023, when he intentionally shoved an Ocala Police Department (OPD) officer after being escorted out of an establishment for his disorderly conduct.

Shortly before the battery occurred, the OPD officer was escorting Jackson out of the bar due to the defendant causing a disturbance on the second floor and displaying aggressive behavior towards patrons. As the officer was ushering the defendant from the second floor, leading outside to the sidewalk area, an unknown liquid was tossed from the second-floor balcony, landing on the ground beside Jackson.

At that time, Jackson became irate, turning around and attempting to proceed back into the establishment. During this effort, the OPD officer attempted to prevent the defendant from reentering the business. Upon doing so, Jackson pushed and shoved the officer as he was making his way back to the bar’s entrance. He was placed under arrest.

Jackson was sentenced with credit for time served and 5 years of probation, along with alcohol and substance abuse treatment, 300 hours of community service, and additional court fines. 

Assistant State Attorney Meredith Poisson successfully prosecuted this case.

Published on 02/13/2025.