Turns out, allegedly “staging” an arrest for a reality TV show wasn’t the smartest idea.
Williamson County officials are learning that lesson the hard way, after they agreed to shell out $2.5 million to a Cedar Park resident whose arrest was apparently made more dramatic for the reality TV show “Live PD,” the Austin American-Statesman reported.
In 2019, a SWAT team busted into Asher Watsky’s home using flashbangs and all kinds of other cop toys, when they arrested him on an assault charge stemming from a fight with his roommate. It was a splashy bust, and it was perfect for television. Maybe a little too perfect.
An investigation by the American-Statesman and KVUE revealed Watsky had attended a court hearing earlier that day and could have easily been arrested then. Guess that wouldn’t have made good enough TV, though.
Watsky’s attorneys at the time said his arrest was “staged” for television — and that it was a violation of his civil rights.
“This settlement is a critical step toward holding those in power accountable for their actions,” said Brad Vinson, who represents Watsky. “While no amount of money can undo the harm our client endured, this resolution sends a strong message that civil rights violations will not be tolerated.”
The settlement is part of an ongoing investigation into former Sheriff Robert Chody’s controversial relationship with “Live PD.” Chody has argued the show highlighted law enforcement’s work, but the partnership resulted in several allegations of excessive force and lawsuits. In another case, Williamson County paid $5 million in 2021 to the family of Javier Ambler II, who died in the county’s custody while the “Live PD” cameras rolled.
Chody and Assistant County Attorney Jason Nassour are still facing charges of evidence tampering for allegedly destroying “Live PD” footage related to Javier Ambler’s arrest.
Watsky’s settlement resolves all but one more lawsuit from Chody’s administration, officials said.
