Yesterday morning in Jacksonville Beach, police responded to a disturbance at the Pier Parking Lot, located at 502 1st Street North. Around 2 a.m., officers observed three individuals drinking inside a vehicle and revving its engine, which led to a confrontation and the subsequent arrest of all three people involved, according to News4JAX.
When officers moved in to secure the area, two of the individuals reportedly acted violently toward the police, while a third attempted to interfere with the arrests despite repeated commands to step back. The incident resulted in injuries to multiple officers, with one taken to the hospital for treatment and two others treated at the scene.
The individuals arrested have been identified as Joseph Chiarle and Michael Whitaker, both facing charges of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, and Dayshon Milo, who was arrested under the HALO Law for interfering with a first responder on duty. The HALO Law establishes a protective buffer around emergency personnel to prevent obstruction while they carry out their duties.
Chief of Police Gene Paul Smith addressed the incident, emphasizing that attacks on officers will not be tolerated. He stated that the department will use necessary force to stop any assault and will continue to pursue criminal behavior to maintain public safety. Joseph Chiarle was arrested on charges including aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer and DUI, while Michael Whitaker faces charges including battery on a law enforcement officer and aggravated battery causing bodily harm.
Previous incidents in Jacksonville Beach provide context to the area’s recent events, including the 2022 killing of Jared Bridegan and a July traffic stop that led to allegations of excessive force, as reported by Here Jacksonville.
