Florida Deputy Found Not Guilty After Explosive Arrest Left Suspect Severely Burned

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A Florida deputy, David Crawford, has been acquitted of culpable negligence charges more than two years after a botched arrest led to a catastrophic explosion, leaving suspect Jean Barreto with severe burns. The incident occurred in February 2022 at a gas station in Orange County, Florida, and raised questions about law enforcement’s use of force and accountability.

The Explosive Arrest

The chaotic events unfolded when Osceola County deputies attempted to arrest 26-year-old Jean Barreto, who was accused of reckless driving and fleeing from police on a dirt bike. Crawford, one of the officers involved, deployed his Taser in a high-stress situation, causing an explosion due to the presence of gasoline at the pump. Surveillance footage shows Crawford tackling Barreto, knocking over the bike, and igniting a fire that engulfed the suspect in flames. Barreto, who was left with burns over 75% of his body, later testified that he was not the suspect law enforcement had been chasing.

During the trial, prosecutors argued that Crawford’s actions were reckless and directly caused the explosion. However, the defense maintained that the incident was an unfortunate accident. After a week-long trial, the jury found Crawford not guilty, siding with the defense’s claim of accidental negligence.

While Crawford was exonerated, the legal saga isn’t over for Barreto. His attorney, Albert Yonfa, plans to file a civil lawsuit, citing excessive force and the lack of proper medical response during the incident. Despite the jury’s decision, the case has sparked a broader conversation about law enforcement’s role in ensuring safety, both for suspects and officers, in high-risk situations.

The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has expressed respect for the jury’s verdict, while also addressing ongoing investigations and procedures related to the incident.