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Osceola Police Chief Resigns Amid Controversial Incident

4/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Osceola Police Chief Robert Ephlin resigned on April 8, 2026, after accusations he slapped Danarius Williams, a paraplegic man, during a fight response on April 6, 2026.
Witnesses criticized actions, saying Ephlin acted inappropriately toward Williams.
Mayor Joe Harris Jr. called for an independent investigation to ensure transparency.
Danarius Williams said the incident deepened community distrust in the police department.
The investigation remains ongoing, with updates expected after the review.

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Story summary

Osceola Police Chief Robert Ephlin resigned on April 8, 2026, after accusations he slapped Danarius Williams, a paraplegic man, during a fight response on April 6, 2026.
Witnesses criticized actions, saying Ephlin acted inappropriately toward Williams.
Mayor Joe Harris Jr. called for an independent investigation to ensure transparency.
Danarius Williams said the incident deepened community distrust in the police department.
The investigation remains ongoing, with updates expected after the review.