As a film enthusiast with a keen interest in the intersection of entertainment and reality, this latest development in the saga of “Live PD” leaves me both appalled and amused. It seems that the fine line between law enforcement and reality television has become increasingly blurred, to the point where it appears some officers saw themselves as stars in their own action-packed series.
On Tuesday, a Texas county consented to compensate $2.5 million as part of a settlement over claims that a SWAT team’s arrest was orchestrated specifically for the television series “Live PD” on A&E.
Gary Watsky contended in court that law enforcement officers entered his home without a warrant on May 2019, breaking down both the front and back doors, using a loud explosive device known as a “flash-bang” grenade, and overwhelming the house. As per his lawsuit, Watsky was held at gunpoint, searched, and subsequently taken outside, where he noticed a television camera crew and learned that the search was being recorded for “Live PD.
The deputies were present with the intention of apprehending Asher Watsky, who had previously faced charges in court. The lawsuit claims that Asher could have been arrested peacefully at the courthouse, but instead, the deputies opted to conduct a sensational and forceful raid for more compelling television coverage.
On Tuesday, the Commissioners Court of Williamson County voted 4-1 in favor of a $2.5 million settlement, with no open debate or discussion among the public. Initial reports about this settlement emerged from KVUE, an ABC affiliate based in Austin.
I personally uncovered that the event, initially brought to light by KVUE, was part of a chain of misconduct connected to the county sheriff’s association with “Live PD.” In March 2019, Javier Ambler tragically lost his life following a high-speed chase, during which deputies repeatedly used a Taser on him while he pleaded that he couldn’t breathe and had a heart condition. Subsequently, two deputies were indicted for manslaughter, but they were found not guilty at their trial.
Sheriff Robert Chody is accused of concealing an incident by supposedly ordering the deletion of “Live PD” footage. In a record-breaking move, Travis County consented to pay $5 million to the family of Ambler – as reported by the Austin American-Statesman.
Chody lost his bid for re-election in 2020.
The Watsky lawsuit alleges that Chody and his team viewed themselves as performers for the purpose of entertainment within this TV show.
The lawsuit claims that several deputies enjoyed the spotlight and recognition associated with emerging celebrities, leading them to amplify the show’s drama. Reportedly, Chody would announce on Twitter for locals to watch the recent ‘Live PD’ episode at the local cinema,” the suit claimed, which boosted the excitement for the program.
In August of 2019, Williamson County attempted to terminate its agreement with “Live PD”, due to concerns about its impact on law enforcement and potential increases in insurance costs. Despite this, it is alleged that the county’s sheriff, Chody, secretly allowed filming to continue. As a result, the county filed a lawsuit against him in 2020, aiming to have a court rule that the contract had indeed been terminated.
Under the glare of the television spotlights, Sheriff Chody seemingly overlooked his fundamental responsibilities as the Sheriff of Williamson County, according to the county’s legal team. His role is that of a sheriff, not a television producer, reality TV star, or talent agent in the entertainment industry.
In the year 2020, “Live PD” was taken off the air by A&E, coinciding with the demonstrations that erupted after the killing of George Floyd. Now, a program with the same format called “On Patrol: Live,” produced by the same team, is being broadcast on Reelz.
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2024-10-17 23:16