The criminal charges against Scottie Scheffler have been dropped after his arrest during the PGA Championship.
The 27-year-old was detained by police officers earlier this month near Valhalla Golf Club – hours before he was scheduled to tee off.
He was pictured in handcuffs and taken to a local station on May 17 following an ‘unfortunate misunderstanding’ after there had been a fatal traffic accident near the course.
Scheffler had attempted to drive past a police officer, which led to him being being charged with second-degree assault on a police officer, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving and disregarding an officer’s signals.
But those charges have now been dropped after Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell asked a judge not to pursue criminal action.
He remarked: “Based upon the totality of the evidence, my office cannot move forward in the prosecution of the charges filed against Mr Scheffler.
“Mr Scheffler’s characterisation that this was ‘a big misunderstanding’ is corroborated by the evidence.”
Scheffler welcomed the decision in a statement released on social media, where he paid tribute to John Mills, who was fatally struck by a shuttle bus in an earlier incident on the same road.
Taking to his Instagram story, Scheffler said: “Earlier today, I was informed by my attorney, Steve Romines, that all charges were formally dismissed in regard to the incident outside of Valhalla Golf Club on May 17.
“As I stated previously, this was an unfortunate misunderstanding. I hold no ill will toward Officer Gillis.
“I wish to put this incident behind me and move on, and I hope he will do the same.
“Police officers have a difficult job and I hold them in high regard. This was a severe miscommunication in a chaotic situation.
“I appreciate the support during the past two weeks and want to again encourage everyone to remember the real tragedy of May 17.
“My thoughts and prayers continue to be with John Mills and his family, and I hope to personally offer my condolences now that the case is over.
“May John rest in peace. Thank you, Scottie.”
Following the charges being dropped, the Louisville Metro Police Department declared they ‘respected’ the County Attorney’s decision.
Meanwhile, arresting officer Bryan Gillis also released a statement, insisting there is no ‘ill will’ between him and Scheffler.
However, the detective criticised the golfer’s lawyer and addressed widespread ridicule over the police report which documented that his $80 trousers were ‘damaged beyond repair’.
Detective Gillis said: “Mr. Scheffler and I both agree that there will be no ill will over this going forward. Instead of giving a negative public reaction, he chose to speak with dignity, humility, and respect. My family and I appreciate that.
“It was unfortunate and disturbing to hear Steve Romines’ commentary today claiming that a ‘false arrest’ was made and for him to challenge my honor and integrity. I’d be surprised and disappointed if Mr. Scheffler actually had any part in making those statements.
“To be clear, I was drug by the car, I went to the ground and I received visible injuries to my knees and wrist. I’m going to recover from it, and it will be ok.”
He then joked: “PS… Yes, the department has us buying freaking $80 pants. To those concerned, they were indeed ruined. But Scottie, it’s all good.
“I never would’ve guessed I’d have the most famous pair of pants in the country for a few weeks because of this. Take care and be safe.”