Extensive Disciplinary Record Of Officer Who Arrested Golfer Scottie Scheffler Raises Further Questions

The recent arrest of world No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler by Detective Bryan Gillis has led to scrutiny of the officer’s extensive disciplinary record.

On May 17, Scheffler was handcuffed when attempting to enter Valhalla Golf Club, where police were investigating a nearby fatal accident. Scheffler contends that he was following police instructions while arresting officers claimed otherwise.

Charges against Scheffler were dropped last week. 

Further complicating the situation, Gillis did not activate his body-worn camera during the encounter. The only available footage comes from a squad car dashboard camera and a roadside pole, neither of which captures the incident leading to Scheffler’s handcuffing.

Personnel records released by the Louisville Metro Police Department reveal that Gillis has a checkered history with multiple suspensions and reprimands. His disciplinary issues date back over a decade, including a five-day suspension in 2013 for “conduct unbecoming” after driving an intoxicated civilian and performing “donuts” in a parking lot. In 2021, he was disciplined for pursuing a vehicle without a violent felony or warrant, reflecting poor judgment in the line of duty.

Gillis was also found at fault in several vehicular accidents, which resulted in oral reprimands and mandatory driver’s training. His attendance record shows repeated failure to appear in court, leading to multiple suspensions. Gillis received a commendation in 2021 for his performance in a traffic enforcement operation, where he issued 108 citations in four hours.

The incident with Scheffler has raised questions about Gillis’ conduct and the decision-making processes within the Louisville Metro Police Department. The failure to activate his body camera and the subsequent reliance on unclear footage complicate the case.

The River City Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 614, which represents LMPD detectives, has not yet commented.