Charges Against Golfer Scottie Scheffler Dropped After 'Big Misunderstanding'

Charges against world number one golfer Scottie Scheffler were dropped after a court ruled there was not enough evidence for prosecution. Scheffler faced multiple charges following an arrest in Louisville, but his attorney argued it was a misunderstanding. Scheffler aims to focus on his golf career without further legal distractions.

Charges against world number one golfer Scottie Scheffler stemming from his arrest before the second round of the PGA Championship in Louisville, Kentucky, two weeks ago were dropped on Wednesday.

Jefferson County Attorney Mike O'Connell told the court there was not enough evidence to move forward with the case against Scheffler, who was charged on May 17 with four counts, including felony second-degree assault on a police officer. "Mr. Scheffler's characterization that this was a 'big misunderstanding' is corroborated by the evidence," O'Connell told the court.

"Mr. Scheffler's actions and the evidence surrounding their exchange during this misunderstanding do not satisfy the elements of any criminal offenses." The charges were dropped with prejudice, meaning they cannot be refiled.

Scheffler was arrested for allegedly attempting to drive around traffic that was backed up due to a pedestrian fatality investigation outside Valhalla Golf Club. He was released from jail in time to compete in the tournament. According to the police report, officer Bryan Gillis stopped Scheffler's vehicle and attempted to give him instructions but the golfer "refused to comply and accelerated forward, dragging" the officer to the ground.

Scheffler, who was also charged with third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving and disregarding traffic signals from an officer directing traffic, described the situation at the time as a "big misunderstanding". Attorney Steve Romines said Scheffler was unaware at the time that a fatality had occurred and was directed, as other players were, on how to proceed into Valhalla.

Romines also said Scheffler, who is in the midst of a remarkable season of golf, would not be filing a civil lawsuit and wanted to focus on his career rather than get distracted by litigation. "He's happy it's over, he wants to move on," Romines told reporters. "He has no desire to a) be involved in litigation and b) try to recover money from the taxpayers of Louisville."

The Louisville Metro Police Department have since taken "corrective action" against the officer who arrested Scheffler for not activating his body-worn camera during the incident. Scheffler arrived at Valhalla that week as the pre-tournament favourite and seeking a fifth win in six starts and a second consecutive major title. He ultimately finished eight shots behind the winner and in a share of eighth place.

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)