Lakeland cop caught on camera fighting driver in road rage incident

LAKELAND, Fla. — A Lakeland police officer was recorded beating up a man in a fit of road rage, investigators said Tuesday.

Deputies said Jerry Monroe, 41, was off-duty Sunday afternoon when he was allegedly cut off by a driver.

According to an arrest report, Monroe honked his horn at the car and the driver "shot the bird" at him.

The report states that the driver of the car, Andrew Jones, and his girlfriend, Victoria Paradise, were on their way to pick up pizza and pulled into a shopping plaza.

Investigators said Monroe then walked up to Jones, and an argument ensued, which then turned into a physical altercation.

Witnesses said at one point Monroe slammed Jones head to the ground.

Lakeland Police Chief Lisa Womack said, "I take these allegations very seriously, and I will not tolerate behavior as has been alleged in this case."

Jones was treated at Lakeland Regional Medical Center and later released.

Monroe was charged with misdemeanor battery and placed on paid administrative leave.

WFTV