Jacksonville Beach, Florida, January 29, 2026
An off-duty Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office officer, Stephen D. Hicks, has been charged with misdemeanor battery for forcibly removing a teenager from an e-bike and slamming him to the ground. The incident, witnessed by park-goers and captured on surveillance, has raised significant public outrage and calls for more serious charges. Hicks has pleaded not guilty and is set to appear in court soon, while an internal investigation by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is currently underway.
Jacksonville Beach, Florida
Off-duty Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) officer Stephen D. Hicks has been charged with misdemeanor battery following an incident at Sunshine Park in Jacksonville Beach, where he forcefully removed a teenager from an e-bike and slammed him to the ground. The event, captured on surveillance video, has ignited public outrage and calls for more severe charges.
The confrontation occurred on January 17, 2026, when Hicks, off-duty and not in uniform, was observed interacting with park-goers. Witnesses reported that Hicks approached a teenager riding an e-bike, grabbed him by the arm, and threw him to the ground. During the altercation, Hicks identified himself as a police officer by displaying his badge.
The attorney for the teenager’s family described the incident as “extremely horrifying” and labeled Hicks’ actions as “unprovoked” and “egregious.” The attorney is advocating for upgraded charges against Hicks, including felony child abuse, and emphasized the need for the family to be protected under Marcy’s Law, which grants victims certain constitutional rights.
Hicks has pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor battery charge and was released on bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on February 17, 2026. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has administratively reassigned Hicks while an internal investigation is underway.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from the community, with many expressing concern over the use of force by a law enforcement officer against a minor. As the case develops, it is vital to reflect on law enforcement practices and accountability in the community.
Understanding the Situation
Jacksonville Beach, known for its vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere, now finds itself at the intersection of law enforcement dynamics and community relations. Incidents like this challenge both residents and law enforcement agencies to reassess their approach to public safety and accountability. The dialogue initiated by this event could pave the way for necessary reforms, enhancing trust between the police and the community.
The Role of Marcy’s Law
Marcy’s Law serves to protect the rights of crime victims, ensuring they are informed and can participate in legal proceedings. In this case, its application highlights the importance of providing additional legal protections for vulnerable populations, such as minors involved in altercations with police officers.
Community Response
The reaction from the Jacksonville Beach community has been one of concern and anger. Residents have taken to social media and community forums to express their discontent over the incident and demand accountability. Such engagement underscores the potential for civic involvement to influence policy decisions and strengthen community-police relationships.
Implications for Law Enforcement
Incidents like the one involving Officer Hicks illustrate the need for ongoing training and oversight within law enforcement agencies. A focus on de-escalation techniques, especially when interacting with minors, is essential for fostering a safe environment for all citizens. Enhanced training could reduce the occurrence of similar confrontations in the future.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming court date for Officer Hicks on February 17, 2026, will be pivotal not only for the involved parties but also for the Jacksonville Beach community’s trust in its law enforcement professionals. The outcome may influence future training protocols and departmental policies, highlighting the balance needed between community safety and the rights of individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges has Officer Stephen D. Hicks faced?
Officer Stephen D. Hicks has been charged with misdemeanor battery following an incident at Sunshine Park in Jacksonville Beach, where he forcefully removed a teenager from an e-bike and slammed him to the ground.
What is Marcy’s Law?
Marcy’s Law is a constitutional amendment that grants victims of crime certain rights, including the right to be informed of proceedings and the right to be heard at public hearings.
What is the current status of Officer Hicks?
Officer Hicks has pleaded not guilty to the misdemeanor battery charge and was released on bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on February 17, 2026. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has administratively reassigned Hicks while an internal investigation is underway.
What has been the community’s reaction to the incident?
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from the community, with many expressing concern over the use of force by a law enforcement officer against a minor.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sunshine Park, Jacksonville Beach, Florida |
| Date of Incident | January 17, 2026 |
| Officer Involved | Stephen D. Hicks, off-duty JSO officer |
| Charge | Misdemeanor battery |
| Victim | Teenager riding an e-bike |
| Community Response | Widespread condemnation and calls for upgraded charges |
| Legal Proceedings | Hicks pleaded not guilty; court appearance scheduled for February 17, 2026 |
| JSO Action | Administrative reassignment of Hicks; internal investigation ongoing |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
