Newly released police body camera footage shows a tense encounter between officers and a teenage suspect following a vehicle stop earlier this week.
The incident began shortly after midnight when officers conducted a traffic stop involving a vehicle believed to be connected to a recent hit-and-run. The footage, which spans just over two minutes, captures the moment officers approached the vehicle with weapons drawn, ordering the occupants to exit and show their hands.
“Open the door! Stand up! Hands up! Back up! Walk back to me!” one officer is heard shouting as the suspect complies with the commands.
According to police, the suspect, later identified as Jay Reese, 17, initially hesitated but eventually followed instructions, walking backward toward the officers before being taken into custody without incident.
During questioning, officers can be heard repeatedly asking for the suspect’s name and date of birth. Reese identifies himself and provides his birthdate as March 11, 2008, confirming he is a juvenile. The officers then ask whether anyone else was in the vehicle or in the trunk, to which Reese responds, “No, there’s nobody in the truck. I swear.”
Officers also warn Reese that providing false information could lead to additional charges. One officer is heard saying, “If you lie to me, that’s an additional charge. You understand what I’m saying?”
Authorities say the vehicle involved reportedly swerved, hit a curb, and sustained visible damage before stopping. No injuries were reported.
Police confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the events leading up to the stop and whether any additional individuals were involved.
The department stated that the video was released “in the interest of transparency” and that charges are pending against the juvenile suspect.
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