Two Bodycams, One Incident: Examining the Fernley Traffic Stop Controversy

Lyon County NV – April 27, 2026

A video circulating on social media is drawing attention to a traffic incident that occurred in Fernley, Nevada on April 26, 2024. The body-camera footage begins with a Lyon County Sheriff’s Office deputy using a Taser on a driver, removing him from a parked vehicle, and taking him to the ground.

What led up to this?

According to the initial footage, the first deputy on scene approaches a parked vehicle with darkened windows and its engine running. Inside are two occupants: a driver and a passenger reclining in the front seat. The deputy had reportedly been dispatched following a call about a possible DUI, including a report of a vehicle driving over sidewalks, with a matching license plate.

Bodycam footage from the first deputy:

In the video, the deputy appears to communicate with both occupants. The driver does not comply with commands and remains in the vehicle. The deputy requests backup from dispatch and later urges a faster response, citing concerns about the occupants’ behavior, including lack of compliance, hands not visible, and the vehicle remaining running.

A second deputy arrives shortly afterward. Following direction from the 1st deputy to remove the driver, the 2nd deputy issues commands for the driver to exit, and then deploys a Taser when the driver does not comply. The driver is then pulled from the vehicle and taken to the ground.

Sheriff Brad Pope’s response:

Bodycam footage from the second deputy:

The incident has prompted reaction and commentary, from Tim Shaffer, a candidate in the 2026 Lyon County sheriff’s race. Shaffer stated he initially reviewed only what was available at the time: the bodycam footage from the 2nd deputy.

I want to apologize for the delayed response. It took me some time to carefully consider the right way to address this.

I was made aware of a video circulating on social media by several campaign supporters and followers. I have watched the video multiple times in an effort to fully understand what took place.

I will be direct: the first 12 minutes are absolutely appalling and completely excessive. Statements such as “I’m going to *** you up” and “I’m going to beat your ass” are unacceptable and should never be used. While I understand that emotions can run high and, at times, foul language may occur, this situation clearly crossed the line.

For transparency, I am sharing the full video I received, which is from one Deputy’s body camera. I do not have footage from any other Deputies who were present.

This incident raises serious concerns about training, supervision, and public trust. Our community deserves a Sheriff’s Office that reflects professionalism, restraint, and accountability. As Sheriff, I will ensure deputies receive the training, leadership, and oversight necessary to protect both public safety and constitutional rights.

The full video is 43 minutes long and viewer discretion is advised.

Pizen Switch Times sent Mr. Shaffer a link to this article and wrote: “The 5 minute video from the 1st officer on scene is attached to the article, and you are welcome to comment on it for inclusion in the article if you would like.”

Tim Shaffer replied: “I am aware of a video was posted along with a statement from the Sheriff’s Office attempting to justify what occurred. The newly released footage (from the 1st deputy) does not change what took place during the first 12 minutes of the original video (from the 2nd deputy) . Even after reviewing the additional footage, which I acknowledged in my first post I had not yet seen, it does not change my position. It does not justify the actions of the second deputy. I stand by what I posted regarding the first 12 minutes. Please understand that I know people should be held accountable for their actions, not allowed to walk away on a technicality. Nobody wants that.”

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The situation highlights the inherently complex nature of such encounters, shaped by the perspective of law enforcement operating in uncertain and potentially dangerous conditions, as well as the public’s interest in transparency and appropriate use of force.