Inside the lavish life of Scottie Scheffler cop Javar Downs with fast cars and luxury holidays aplenty – before he was charged with stealing $4,000 during a traffic stop three months after PGA golf tour arrest

Louisville Officer’s Lavish Lifestyle Contrasted with Theft Allegations

A Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officer, Javar Downs, has been thrust into the spotlight under troubling circumstances. The 39-year-old law enforcement official was arrested on Friday following allegations that he stole $4,000 from a suspect during a traffic stop. This incident has ignited scrutiny not only because of the theft but also due to Downs’ ostentatious display of wealth on social media, which starkly contrasts with his alleged misconduct.

 

The incident in question unfolded when Downs reportedly pulled over a vehicle around 12:45 a.m. on Wednesday on Taylor Boulevard. During the stop, he allegedly discovered an envelope containing $10,000 in cash. However, Downs is accused of seizing only $6,000 of the cash and submitting this amount into evidence, while the remaining $4,000 was allegedly kept for himself. The suspect subsequently lodged a complaint with the police department, claiming that he had seen Downs pocket the money.

 

Downs’ lavish lifestyle was evident in his social media posts, which featured a series of luxurious images that painted a picture of affluence. His online presence boasted of fast cars, exotic vacations, and a high-end wardrobe. He frequently showcased his impressive assets, including a Dodge Challenger SRT, a new silver Mercedes, and an Acura, which he purchased for his wife, Cortney. His social media accounts also highlighted their opulent lifestyle, including a sprawling $1 million home, which was actually bought by Cortney’s parents, Ralph and Tammy Dechabert, for $875,000 in 2008. Despite this, Downs often presented the house as his own.

 

The couple’s vacations were also a prominent feature on Downs’ social media. They had traveled to South Africa, Lake Tahoe, and Maui in 2023, among other destinations. In one December post, Downs reflected on their travels and personal growth, expressing excitement for the upcoming year. Yet, amidst these posts, he also shared a less glamorous side of his financial situation. In February, he complained about $34,000 in student loans, and just before his arrest, he grumbled about the high cost of Invisalign, hinting at financial strain despite his otherwise affluent appearance.

 

Further complicating matters, Downs had a history of expressing discontent with his employer. He had previously criticized the LMPD for its handling of information and internal culture. His frustration was evident in several posts, including one in November 2022 where he lambasted the department for a lack of transparency and accountability.

 

Downs’ involvement in the Scottie Scheffler arrest case earlier this year also added to his controversial profile. Scheffler, a prominent golfer, was arrested on May 17 and charged with second-degree assault of a police officer, third-degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding signals from an officer directing traffic. Downs was reprimanded for failing to activate his body camera during the incident, which led to significant criticism from his superiors. His direct supervisor, Robert Ward, defended Downs by suggesting that he was too engaged in the rapidly evolving situation to turn on his camera.

 

The arrest of Scheffler, who was later exonerated when all charges were dropped, further spotlighted Downs’ actions. Scheffler, unaware of a prior accident that had altered traffic conditions, had been driving as directed by police. The incident was described as a misunderstanding, and the evidence supported Scheffler’s account, leading to the dismissal of the charges against him.

 

Now, with the theft allegations against him, Downs faces serious consequences. The police department has placed him on emergency suspension, restricted his police powers, and initiated the process of termination. The charges against him include theft of more than $1,000 and official misconduct. This situation has cast a shadow over Downs’ career and personal life, contrasting sharply with the affluent image he portrayed on social media.

 

The saga surrounding Javar Downs serves as a stark reminder of the disparity between public personas and real-life conduct. It underscores the complexities and challenges of policing, especially when personal actions starkly contradict the values and responsibilities associated with law enforcement. As the investigation continues, the broader implications for Downs and the Louisville Metro Police Department will likely unfold, potentially impacting both his professional standing and the public’s trust in local law enforcement.