WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Seven West Palm Beach Police officers have been arrested in connection with a fatal Boynton Beach crash that took the lives of two women in July 2024, the West Palm Beach Fraternal Order of Police confirmed with an exclusive statement to WPTV Wednesday evening.
The arrests come almost a year after police said Neoni Copeland, 23, of Boynton Beach, was speeding away from officers of the West Palm Beach Police Department when he crashed into another vehicle on North Congress Avenue.
WATCH BELOW: 7 West Palm Beach police officers arrested
Inside the vehicle was Marcia Pochette, 57, and her pregnant daughter, Jenice Woods, 27. Both died as a result of the crash.
The seven officers who were involved were placed on leave of absence in August as the crash was investigated, and they surrendered on June 4.
“The West Palm Beach Fraternal Order of Police extends our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this traffic fatality. We recognize the profound pain this tragedy has caused and join the community in mourning this devastating loss.” -West Palm Beach Fraternal Order of Police
On Thursday morning, the seven West Palm Beach police officers were identified by the State Attorney's Office.
Three officers— Austin Danielovich, Pierre Etienne and Christopher Rekdahl— are facing two counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving death, a first-degree felony, and one count of official misconduct, a third-degree felony.
Four officers— Michael Borgen, William Loayza, Brandan Stedfelt and Darien Thomas— all face one count of official misconduct.
“The police officers’ actions are a disturbing betrayal of the public trust,” State Attorney Alexcia Cox said. “Law enforcement officers have a duty to the public they swore to uphold. No one is above the law, and this office will pursue justice wherever the facts and the law lead.”
The officers were expected to make their first appearances in court Thursday morning.
“This is a difficult time for everyone involved," the Fraternal Order of Police said. "As we grieve with the families, we also remain steadfast in supporting our members through the legal process, with a deep respect for the seriousness of this matter and the lives forever changed.”
West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James provided WPTV with this statement on the arrests:
Today, we’ve learned of the arrest of seven of our police officers. We take even the appearance of injustice seriously and grieve with those affected by this incident. I remain committed to the safety of every resident, employee, and visitor in this city. There are no days off to ensure public safety and transparency. Public safety is priority number one.
