BEL AIR, Md. — A self proclaimed activist who was arrested in May for obstruction while recording a video of a Harford County Sheriff's deputy during a car stop, has cut a deal with prosecutors.
Sean Paul Reyes, of New York, agreed to write an apology letter and complete community service as part of the deal.
In a complete reversal of what he said in the video, Reyes writes in the letter that deputy Keith Jackson didn't violate his constitutional rights.
The video in question started when Jackson was having a conversation with a driver he had pulled-over.
Reyes, who had nothing to do with the stop walked over to confront Jackson with his cell phone camera out.
Jackson asked Reyes multiple times, "can I help you?"
As Reyes got closer and closer, Jackson could be heard saying "back up please," even giving him an option to tape from somewhere else.
The incident carried on several more minutes with Reyes arguing and refusing to listen to any of Jackson's orders, which ultimately led to his arrest.
RELATED: Video shows Harford County deputy arresting self proclaimed activist who tried filming traffic stop
Following the altercation, the video went viral prompting the Sheriff's Office to release body worn camera footage and launch an internal investigation.
In a statement, Harford County State's Attorney Albert J. Peisinger, Jr., said Jackson used proper de-escalation methods to gain control of the situation.
"Deputy Jackson’s actions that evening exemplify how our law enforcement routinely interacts with our Harford County community and how it should be done."
Peisinger also said his office would continue to prosecute anyone committing similar offenses in the future.
"I also want to make it perfectly clear that my Office will continue to prosecute any individual that hinders or obstructs our law enforcement agencies within our county."
Prosecutors say Jackson signed off on the deal before it was agreed to.
