Fort Pierce Police Department Chief Diane Hobley-Burney has publicly condemned an officer’s inappropriate action involving use of force against a handcuffed man. The incident, captured on another officer’s body camera, has sparked significant concern within the Fort Pierce community and led to the resignation of Officer Jean Valbrun.
Details of Fort Pierce Officer’s Inappropriate Action
According to Chief Hobley-Burney, Officer Jean Valbrun violated department standards and betrayed public trust when he removed his body camera and physically assaulted a man who was already restrained. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. on March 26, 2025, in the 1200 block of Avenue L, just west of U.S.-1.
The chief described the incident as a “moment of reflection” and emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust and honoring the badge. This incident follows other recent events, such as the seizure of guns and ammo in Fort Pierce after threats were made.
Incident Captured on Body Camera
Although Valbrun removed his own body camera, his actions were recorded by another officer’s device. The footage, which has not yet been publicly released, reportedly shows Valbrun punching the restrained individual inside a police vehicle.
“Officer Valbrun went to the car and started punching this individual,” Chief Hobley-Burney confirmed. “The mistake this officer made took his livelihood away.” This incident is reminiscent of other high-profile cases, such as the Fort Pierce man’s presidential threat case.
Officer Jean Valbrun’s Resignation and Investigation
Officer Valbrun, who joined the Fort Pierce Police Department in 2021, resigned shortly after the incident. His resignation came amid ongoing internal investigations and a separate probe by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
The condition of the man involved in the incident has not been disclosed, and authorities have not publicly identified him. This situation draws parallels to the seizure of guns after threats to President Trump.
Community Reaction and Department Response
The Fort Pierce community has expressed concern over the incident, prompting the police department to reinforce its commitment to transparency and accountability. Chief Hobley-Burney stated that the department would use this incident as a learning opportunity to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“It’s a hurting feeling because my expectations of my officers is to always honor our badge,” Hobley-Burney said. “It shows the inappropriate action of our officer.”
Ongoing Investigations by FDLE and Internal Affairs
Both the internal investigation by Fort Pierce Police Department and the external investigation by FDLE remain active. Authorities have indicated that further details will be released upon completion of these investigations.
WPTV has requested Officer Valbrun’s personnel file and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Pierce Officer’s Inappropriate Action
What happened with the Fort Pierce police officer?
A Fort Pierce police officer, Jean Valbrun, was caught punching a handcuffed man. He resigned after the incident, and investigations are ongoing.
Where did the inappropriate action by the Fort Pierce officer occur?
The incident occurred in the 1200 block of Avenue L, just west of U.S.-1 in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Are there investigations into the Fort Pierce officer’s actions?
Yes, there are two investigations: an internal one by Fort Pierce Police Department and another by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
How has the Fort Pierce Police Department responded?
Chief Diane Hobley-Burney condemned the officer’s actions and emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability within the department.
Can the public view the body camera footage of the Fort Pierce incident?
The body camera footage has not yet been publicly released. Authorities have indicated it may be released following the conclusion of investigations.
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