Jack Franchek is a 17-year-old student from Park City, Utah, who became a viral sensation after he recorded a video of his encounter with the police in 2019. In the video, Jack can be seen refusing to comply with the officers’ demands to show his ID and get out of his car, while asserting his constitutional rights. The video sparked a heated debate on social media about police brutality, civil rights, and youth activism.
The Incident That Changed His Life
According to KPCW, the incident happened on August 19, 2019, when Jack was driving home from school with his father, Michael Franchek. They were stopped by two Park City police officers for allegedly running a stop sign. The officers asked Jack for his driver’s license and registration, but Jack refused to hand them over, claiming that he had not committed any traffic violation and that he had the right to remain silent. He also asked the officers to show him their badge numbers and names, which they did not do.
The situation escalated when the officers tried to open Jack’s car door and pull him out of the vehicle. Jack resisted and locked the door, while his father tried to calm him down. The officers then threatened to break the window and use a taser on Jack if he did not cooperate. Jack continued to stand his ground and record the whole ordeal on his phone. He also called 911 and asked for a supervisor to come to the scene.
The video of the confrontation went viral on YouTube and TikTok, where it received millions of views and comments. Many people praised Jack for his courage and knowledge of his rights, while others criticized him for being disrespectful and defiant. Some also questioned the legality and morality of the officers’ actions.
The Aftermath and the Lawsuit
The incident resulted in both Jack and his father being arrested and charged with several offenses, including interfering with an arrest, failure to stop at a stop sign, failure to provide identification, and disorderly conduct. They were released on bail the next day.
However, they did not give up their fight for justice. They hired a lawyer and filed a federal lawsuit against Park City and the two officers involved in the incident. They claimed that their civil rights were violated by the unlawful stop, search, seizure, arrest, and use of excessive force. They also alleged that they suffered physical injuries, emotional distress, and reputational damage as a result of the incident.
The lawsuit is still pending in court as of April 2023. According to GoFundMe, Jack has also launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for his college education. He said that he wants to become a civil rights attorney and help other people who face similar situations.
The Inspiration and the Message
Jack Franchek is not just a teenager who had a bad day with the police. He is also an inspiration and a message for many people who care about civil rights and social justice. He showed that anyone can stand up for their rights and challenge authority when they feel that they are being mistreated or abused. He also demonstrated that young people can be informed and engaged citizens who can make a difference in their communities.
Jack Franchek is not afraid to speak his mind and follow his dreams. He is a role model for anyone who wants to be brave and bold in the face of adversity. He is Jack Franchek: The Teen Who Stood Up for His Rights.