MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) — YouTuber Jack Doherty was arrested early Saturday morning after stepping into the street and blocking traffic while he filmed content, according to the Miami Beach Police Department.
Body camera footage posted to the police department’s Facebook page showed Doherty, 22, and his entourage standing in the middle of Washington Avenue at around 3:12 a.m. with their phones out, “blocking traffic and creating a dangerous situation for drivers and himself.”
Police said the popular YouTuber and livestreamer “refused to comply” with officers’ commands to leave the roadway, allegedly responding, “Once I’m done with this bet.”
“We don’t ‘bet’ on public safety,” the Facebook post said.
Police searched Doherty and found what they suspected was cannabis and an amphetamine pill. He was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of cannabis (20 grams or less), and resisting an officer without violence.
“MBPD remains committed to maintaining public safety and order throughout the city. Our officers will continue to take proactive enforcement action against behavior that endangers motorists, residents, or visitors—and will hold all individuals accountable under the law, regardless of their celebrity status,” the Facebook post said.
After posting bond on Saturday night, Doherty told WTVJ-TV the experience was “the worst 24 hours ever.” He claimed he was just taking too long to cross the street.
“I think it was a little excessive, I’m not going to lie,” Doherty told WTVJ. “There was no traffic. It was three in the morning. I think they just wanted to lock me up, but fair enough, learned my lesson.”
This wasn’t Doherty’s first run-in with South Florida law enforcement.
The YouTuber’s Davie home was targeted in an apparent swatting call last year. An incident report obtained by WTVJ said police already knew Doherty was livestreaming at the time and was not in danger.
Doherty crashed a $200,000 car during rainy conditions on the Florida Turnpike a few months later while appearing to use his phone. The crash happened while Doherty was streaming live on Kick – an incident which resulted in his account being banned.
The 22-year-old has racked up over 14 million subscribers on a YouTube channel known for controversial pranks and showing off his wealth.