YouTuber Jack Doherty was arrested in Miami Beach on drug charges over the weekend, but body camera footage reveals he was more concerned about his luxury watch than the legal consequences, repeatedly begging officers not to damage it during the arrest.
The incident occurred on Saturday morning when Miami Beach police stopped and searched Doherty on a public street. His friends were filming the interaction, but officers quickly moved them aside, warning that they could face arrest if they didn’t step back. Doherty was handcuffed, and during the search, police retrieved multiple items from his pockets, including what appeared to be a pill and marijuana.
As officers attempted to remove his watch, Doherty became agitated, insisting that it couldn’t be unclasped and must be slid off gently to avoid scratches. He pleaded with them to remove his handcuffs so he could take off the watch himself and hand it to a friend, expressing fear that the valuable jewelry would be ruined. Police declined his request, and after further discussion, they closed the patrol car door with the watch still on his wrist.
The watch was identified as a Richard Mille model valued at approximately $250,000, adding a dramatic element to the arrest scene. Doherty’s focus on the timepiece, even as he faced serious charges, highlighted his priorities during the stressful encounter. This behavior was captured in body camera footage obtained by news outlets, providing a clear view of the events.
Doherty was transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and booked on charges of possession of a controlled substance (amphetamine), possession of marijuana (under 20 grams), and resisting arrest without violence. Amphetamine is a prescription medication used for conditions like ADHD, and marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Florida. The arrest records indicate he was cooperative in some aspects but resisted passively by focusing on the watch.
He was released on a $3,500 bond later that evening, around 9 p.m., and shortly after, he returned to his usual online activities, streaming on social media platforms. This quick return to normalcy contrasted sharply with the seriousness of the arrest, drawing attention from fans and critics alike. The bond amount was relatively low, suggesting the charges might not carry severe penalties initially.
Jack Doherty, 22, gained fame through prank and stunt videos on YouTube starting in 2017, building a large following with his controversial content. He previously made headlines in 2024 for a serious car crash while live-streaming in a McLaren, which resulted in injuries to his passenger and raised questions about his reckless behavior. His history includes other incidents, such as provoking strangers for engagement and facing backlash for endangering others.
This arrest adds to Doherty’s pattern of legal and public scrutiny, potentially affecting his reputation and career as a social media influencer. It underscores broader issues around celebrity culture and the interactions between online personalities and law enforcement. As the case progresses, it may lead to legal consequences and discussions about accountability in the digital age.
