Two Missouri officers allegedly stole nude photos from dozens of women’s phones during traffic stops

This article discusses two separate cases in Missouri involving former officers who were charged in federal court for illegally searching women’s phones during traffic stops to obtain explicit images. Julian Alcala, a former officer with the city of Florissant, was charged with multiple counts related to deprivation of rights and destroying evidence. It is alleged that he took women’s phones during traffic stops to search for nude images and took photos with his personal phone, ultimately resigning in June after an FBI investigation. Another case involves former Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper David McKnight, who was indicted on similar charges for illegally searching the phones of nine women between 2023 and 2024. McKnight surrendered his license as a state peace officer and cannot work in law enforcement again. The FBI is urging people to report any uncomfortable encounters with officers, as investigating such conduct is a top priority. The cases are not connected, and it is unclear if either of the men are currently in custody. The Missouri State Highway Patrol and the city of Florissant did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Civil lawsuits have been filed against both Alcala and McKnight, with victims alleging that the officers took their phones during traffic stops to obtain explicit images.

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