The Louisville cop who arrested Scottie Scheffler earlier this month closed that chapter Wednesday with a curious rant about a “ruined” pair of “freaking $80 pants.”
Det. Bryan Gillis, who detained the world’s top-ranked golfer outside of Valhalla Golf Club ahead of the second round of the PGA Championship on May 17, released a statement after the four charges against Scheffler, 27, were dropped and included a nod to the pricey trousers that “were damaged beyond repair,” as stated in the original police report of the incident.
“PS…,” Gillis concluded his statement. “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.”
Gillis alleged in the original police report that he was dragged by Scheffler’s car as the two-time Masters champion attempted to maneuver around traffic near the course and that he “suffered pain, swelling, and abrasions to his left wrist and knee.”
His “uniform pants, valued at approximately $80” were tarnished in the wake of the ordeal, per the police report.
At the time of the incident, Scheffler was charged with second-degree assault of a police officer, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving and disregarding signals from officers directing traffic.
The reigning Masters champion had been attempting to enter Valhalla before the start of his second-round tee time on May 17, but there had been a traffic build-up as a result of a fatal accident involving a shuttle bus.
Gillis began his statement Wednesday by offering condolences to the family of the late John Mills, who was lost in the accident, before expressing that he and Scheffler want to move forward after what transpired.
“Mr. Scheffler and I both agree that there will be no ill will over this going forward,” Gillis said. “Instead of giving a negative public reaction, he chose to speak with dignity, humility and respect. My family and I appreciate that.”
Gillis did take a swipe at Scheffler’s attorney, Steve Romines, who praised his client in a press conference after the charges had been dismissed, stating, “When he’s in a police car after being falsely arrested, he is still a perfect gentleman.”
“It was unfortunate and disturbing to hear Steve Romines’ commentary today-claiming a ‘false arrest’ was made and for him to challenge my honesty and integrity,” Gillis stated. “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.”
Gillis did not have his bodycam turned on during the incident with Scheffler and was “counseled by his supervisor.”
