Former Missouri Officers Charged with Rights Violations

Two former Missouri police officers, Julian Alcala and David McKnight, have been indicted on federal charges for illegally searching women's phones for nude images during traffic stops. Alcala, 29, is accused of unlawfully searching the phones of 20 women from February to May 2024, capturing explicit images and attempting to erase evidence of his actions. McKnight, 39, allegedly victimized nine women between September 2023 and August 2024, using similar tactics under the pretense of checking insurance or identity. Both officers face multiple counts of deprivation of rights and destruction of evidence, and have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The FBI has stated that the cases are unrelated despite their similar nature. Both officers resigned from their positions following the allegations and face serious legal consequences.