ORLANDO, Fla. — The State of Florida has dropped criminal charges against a man involved in a viral downtown Orlando stabbing, saying evidence supports his claim of self-defense.
Charges were dropped against Deaveon Jaquan Brown following his arrest on Oct. 10 by Orlando police.
READ: Downtown Orlando stabbing caught on camera, witnesses claim victim was aggressor
The State Attorney’s Office said Monday that it reviewed video footage and witness statements before deciding not to prosecute.
“The evidence indicates that Mr. Brown acted in self-defense during the altercation, and we cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that his actions were not justified under Florida law,” the office said.
The incident happened outside a Taco Bell in downtown Orlando and went viral online after it was caught on camera and shared on social media.
Officers found a man suffering from multiple stab wounds. The victim was rushed to the hospital for surgery and was reported to be in critical condition.
Witnesses said the man who was stabbed was threatening people with the knife before the incident.
Police said videos showed Brown confronting the man and getting into a fight in front of the restaurant before the stabbing.
Prosecutors explain decision
State Attorney Monique H. Worrell’s office said the man who was stabbed also told prosecutors he did not wish to pursue prosecution.
“Here, the video evidence and witness statements support Mr. Brown’s account,” the office said.
Prosecutors said they are ethically obligated not to pursue charges they cannot prove.
“Our duty is to the evidence and the law, not to a particular outcome,” the statement said. “Florida law gives every person the right to defend themselves.”
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