MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA — A corrections officer in South Florida is facing criminal charges after surveillance video allegedly captured a violent encounter with a handcuffed inmate inside a jail elevator at the Miami-Dade County Pre-Trial Detention Center.
Authorities say Myth Louis-Jeune, 36, has been charged with misdemeanor battery in connection with an incident that occurred on March 1, 2023, involving inmate Spencer Butler.
Video Evidence Central to Case
According to prosecutors, the case centers around elevator surveillance footage that allegedly shows the officer repeatedly striking the inmate while he was in handcuffs.
The footage, which later surfaced publicly, has drawn significant attention and raised questions about use-of-force protocols inside correctional facilities.
Investigators say the incident occurred while the inmate was being transported within the facility.
Charges Filed Years After Incident
Although the incident took place in 2023, prosecutors did not formally file charges until January 30, 2026.
Officials explained that the delay allowed the officer’s previous defense attorney time to review evidence, conduct investigations, and gather expert or mitigating information before charges were pursued.
Officer Claims Self-Defense
Louis-Jeune’s attorney, Larry Handfield, has stated that his client acted in self-defense and was “just doing his job” during the incident.
The officer has pleaded not guilty and is currently awaiting trial as the legal process continues.
Prior Suspension Raises Questions
Records reviewed as part of the case show that Louis-Jeune had previously been suspended in November 2021 following a separate use-of-force incident.
The prior disciplinary action has become part of the broader scrutiny surrounding the current charges.
Inmate Remains in Custody on Separate Charges
The inmate involved, Spencer Butler, remains in custody on multiple pending charges, including:
- Burglary
- Grand theft
- Battery
Officials have not indicated that those charges are directly related to the elevator incident.
Department Response and Current Status
Miami-Dade Corrections officials confirmed that Louis-Jeune has been relieved of duty with pay while the case proceeds.
The situation has raised ongoing concerns about oversight and accountability within correctional facilities, particularly in incidents involving restrained individuals.
As the case moves toward trial, authorities say the video evidence and testimony will play a key role in determining the outcome.
The incident continues to draw attention across Florida, highlighting broader discussions around use of force, inmate rights, and law enforcement accountability.
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