Staff Report

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – In an unusual turn of events, 41-year-old Alexander Ackerman McNeil found himself behind bars following accusations of inflicting significant damage on a relative’s vehicle over a mere $25 loan.

The incident unfolded around 10:26 a.m. on March 15, when an Alachua County Sheriff’s Deputy was dispatched to an apartment complex in Linton Oaks. According to the victim’s account, McNeil allegedly went on a destructive spree, targeting the victim’s car.

The victim recounted that McNeil unexpectedly appeared at his apartment around 8:30 p.m. on March 14. He reportedly started banging on the door, demanding the repayment of the $25 loan. From an upstairs window, the victim questioned McNeil’s motivation, saying, “I know you didn’t come over here for $25.” McNeil allegedly retorted with a threat to damage the vehicle if he didn’t receive his money. Despite the confrontation, the victim chose to ignore the situation and return to his activities. However, soon after, his girlfriend witnessed McNeil using a trash can to smash the vehicle’s windshield and then utilizing a second trash can to damage the car’s hood.

Further evidence of the incident surfaced when the victim texted McNeil at 2 a.m., asking, “Why did you bust my window?” to which McNeil reportedly replied, “You should never owe me again.”

Upon examining the vehicle, the deputy documented extensive damage: one side of the hood was severely dented, the windshield bore six large impact marks, the metal trim around the windshield was bent, and a noticeable scratch marred the side of the car.

At about 1:45 p.m. on March 15, the deputy spoke with McNeil at his residence. Post Miranda, McNeil reportedly said he had been in St. Augustine until 10:30 or 11:00 p.m. on March 14. When he was asked whether he had damaged his relative’s car, he reportedly said he wasn’t sure if he had done it or not.

McNeil has been charged with felony property damage. He has one felony conviction (non-violent) and one misdemeanor conviction (non-violent); he served one three-year state prison and was released in 2024. Judge Meshon Rawls ordered him released on his own recognizance.

Articles about arrests are based on reports from law enforcement agencies. The charges listed are taken from the arrest report and/or court records and are only accusations. All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.