According to his attorney, Jay Patel, all charges against former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Dylan Gentry have been dismissed following the release of video evidence.
Gentry was arrested earlier this year by the Fort Walton Beach Police Department on charges of reckless driving, racing, and felony tampering with evidence. These allegations led to his immediate termination from the Sheriff’s Office.
The incident, which occurred on July 12, involved Gentry allegedly engaging in reckless behavior while operating a motorcycle. A video recorded by a camera mounted on Gentry’s motorcycle provided clear evidence contradicting the charges against him.
According to Patel, the video shows that Gentry was operating his motorcycle lawfully and that the accusations leading to his arrest were unfounded.
“The video evidence has been instrumental in demonstrating Dylan Gentry’s innocence,” Patel said in a press release, “We are grateful for the swift dismissal of these charges and the opportunity to clear his name. It is our hope that both the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Fort Walton Beach Police Department learn from this unfortunate incident.”
Gentry’s arrest triggered an immediate termination from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, a consequence of the agency’s policy regarding felony arrests.
Gentry had served with the Sheriff’s Office for three years before his arrest and subsequent firing. At his termination, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office released a statement expressing disappointment in the allegations against Gentry and commending the Fort Walton Beach Police for their diligence.
With his name cleared, Gentry looks forward to restoring his personal and professional reputation. “Dylan is relieved that this matter has been resolved,” Patel added. “He is eager to continue serving the community with his integrity intact.”