Police Officer Charged with Theft During Traffic Stop

Louisville Metro Police Department officer Javar Downs was arrested on Friday following allegations that he stole money during a traffic stop. A suspect reported that Downs took cash from him, claiming that only $6,000 was turned in as evidence at the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections. The Public Integrity Unit has charged Downs with theft exceeding $1,000 and official misconduct, and he is currently under internal investigation. The incident comes on the heels of another case involving a man named Scheffler, who was arrested on May 17 for multiple charges, including second-degree assault of a police officer. During the arrest, an officer was reportedly dragged alongside Scheffler's vehicle, resulting in injuries. Downs faced criticism for not activating his body camera during this incident, but his supervisor defended him, stating that the situation required immediate action. On May 29, all charges against Scheffler were dropped by Jefferson County Attorney Mike O'Connell, who cited insufficient evidence to proceed with prosecution. O'Connell noted that Scheffler's claim of a misunderstanding was supported by the evidence, as he was unaware of an accident that had altered traffic conditions earlier that morning. The unfolding events have raised questions about police conduct and accountability, particularly regarding the handling of evidence and the use of body cameras during arrests. The Louisville Metro Police Department continues to face scrutiny as investigations into both cases proceed.