According to the Chief-of-Police, during the week, officers received multiple complaints regarding surfers illegally entering the beach across the dunes. The gate attendants requested these surfers to show their beach badge, however, their requests went ignored. On this date, the officers who were assigned to the beachfront conducted a check for daily and seasonal badges.

The body worn camera recording shows that during this check, the subject later identified as Liam Mahoney, was approached by officers and when asked for his badge, he replied “I do not need one”. Officer Braswell then advised the specific state and local laws that require Mr. Mahoney to have a badge, and he is not exempt. Officer Braswell then asked Mr. Mahoney for his identification in order to issue him a summons. Mr. Mahoney again refused to give his information and began to walk away.

At this point, Mr. Mahoney was told that he was not free to leave, and he continued to walk away. Officer Braswell then advised him that he would be placed under arrest if he did not cooperate. Mr. Mahoney continued to leave while Officer Braswell followed him. Once Officer Braswell was able to catch up with Mr. Mahoney, he was asked multiple times to drop his surfboard, which he refused. Officer Braswell then removed the surfboard from Mr. Mahoney so that he can be placed under arrest.