Rincon Police Share Body Cam Footage Following Viral Video Incident

RINCON, Ga. () — The Rincon Police Department (RPD) released body cam footage Wednesday after a video of an officer allegedly using excessive force on a man spread widely on social media.

The incident occurred Saturday, Aug. 2 after officers responded to a call from Walmart staff stating there was a shoplifting in progress at the store. Multiple suspects reportedly fled the scene on a vehicle, but two stayed behind at Walmart.

Officers arrived at the scene and after handcuffing one of the suspects, RPD Officer Buckner grabbed 33-year-old James Williams’ wrist and escorted him toward the patrol vehicle.

A statement released by RPD describes the moments before the viral video:

“Before they could make it to the patrol car, the suspect pulled away from the officer when a struggle ensued. The suspect turned toward the officer, shoving him backward, causing the
officer to take the suspect to the ground to regain control.”

In the official incident report, the Officer Buckner stated he did not know if the suspect was armed and “feared he may be attempting to retrieve a weapon to do me harm.”

Williams was later transported to Effingham County Sheriff’s Office jail and was charged with obstruction of law enforcement officers.

The woman shown in the body cam video was identified as Younique Garcia. She was charged with obstruction of an officer.

Officer Buckner returned to regular duty on Wednesday.

You can view the full statement and incident reports here: