Viral Arrest of Teen Girl in Mustang Sparks Concerns Over Officer’s Behavior | Carscoops

      A viral video of a garage arrest may weaken a felony fleeing charge against a teenage driver from Florida.

      The footage raises concerns about the officer's commands and actions, showing questionable police tactics and a father reprimanding his daughter, possibly affecting the 19-year-old's ability to contest the felony fleeing charge in court.

      Earlier this week, a video went viral depicting a young woman being arrested in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. The situation unfolded as police attempted to pull over the teen driver, who then fled. Upon her capture, her father scolded her over the phone while the officer stood nearby.

      Some viewers pointed out that while his anger was understandable, such reprimands might be better reserved for later, as legal experts typically advise that less is said during police encounters.

      Now, a civil rights attorney has entered the discussion, offering insights that cast doubt on the officer's actions, suggesting that the felony charge against the young woman may not withstand legal scrutiny.

      The video shared by Cuffed by Cops and Sgt. Pepperspray depicts 19-year-old Tara Palmieri being detained in her family’s garage beside a warm 2024 Mustang.

      The controversy centers on the nature of the arrest and the officer's approach. The officer asserts that Palmieri drove past him through a no-passing zone despite his directive to stop.

      In the video, Palmieri mentions seeing "a guy in black and white" on the roadside who didn't seem to be a cop and wasn't directly in front of her. The footage appears to support her version of events.

      One attorney reviewing the footage noted that the officer resembled a housing-security guard rather than a marked police presence. The absence of lights, sirens, or a patrol vehicle parked far from view adds to the ambiguity.

      This is significant because, in Florida, evading law enforcement requires a clear and unmistakable order. There are also additional concerns regarding the arrest.

      The video shows the officers entering the family garage without clear consent from Palmieri or anyone else in the household, raising potential Fourth Amendment issues. Furthermore, the officer seemed to question her and collect evidence without administering her Miranda rights.

      Palmieri repeatedly requested a supervisor and challenged inconsistencies in the officer's statements, but her concerns were dismissed while she was cuffed.

      She posted a $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on December 3. Given the viral discussion surrounding her case, it seems likely she may ultimately overcome the charge against her.