Commander Gregory K. Bovino defended federal agents following a viral video that claimed agents in Charlotte, NC, smashed a U.S. citizen’s car window, ripped him out, and assaulted him before confirming his citizenship.
Bovino countered that the man was trying to help criminals evade officers.
The video, which quickly circulated online, alleged a U.S. citizen was stopped twice by different groups of agents.
The second group reportedly used excessive force, only releasing him after they realized he had already proven his citizenship. News outlet WCNC later confirmed the victim’s identity and account.
Bovino’s Counter-Claim: The Man Tried to Evade Officers
Commander Bovino stated that the viral narrative of “routine” assault was misleading. He argued that “American citizens should NEVER help criminals evade officers.”
According to Bovino, the man became erratic, refused lawful commands, and had to be physically removed from his vehicle.
Crucially, Bovino claimed the individual later admitted he was trying to distract officers so others could evade the law. This suggests the use of force was necessary to control a disruptive person attempting to interfere with a federal operation.
The core conflict remains the use of force. While the video claims agents illegally brutalized a citizen, the federal defense claims the citizen became a liability by deliberately helping suspects evade justice.
Watch the video below.
