LAKELAND, FL – July 15, 2025 — A physician affiliated with one of Lakeland’s most prominent medical practices was arrested early Tuesday morning after a disruptive incident in the heart of the city’s downtown nightlife district. According to the Lakeland Police Department, Dr. Shawn Amin, a pain management specialist with Watson Clinic, was taken into custody and charged with Disorderly Conduct following an altercation near the intersection of Tennessee Avenue South and Orange Street East.
The incident unfolded shortly after midnight, when officers responded to reports of an intoxicated man lying in the grass near the intersection. Witnesses told police that the man had recently exited Molly’s Bar, visibly impaired, and began yelling profanities while stumbling into the roadway, drawing concern from pedestrians and late-night patrons.
According to the police report, the individual—later identified as Dr. Shawn Amin—was heard loudly screaming “f* you”** in a manner that was described as disruptive and alarming to those in the vicinity. Officers, along with personnel from Polk County EMS and the Lakeland Fire Department, arrived on the scene and encountered Dr. Amin, who was reportedly combative and verbally aggressive during the initial contact.
Despite repeated attempts to calm the situation, authorities say Dr. Amin continued to behave in a disorderly and uncooperative manner. Citing Florida Statute 856.011, which defines Disorderly Conduct as being intoxicated in a public place and causing a disturbance, officers placed him under arrest. A standard warrant check returned clear, and he was transported without incident to the Sheriff’s Processing Center.
Professional Background
Dr. Shawn Amin is currently listed as a pain management specialist on the Watson Clinic’s official website, where he practices at Watson Clinic Main, located on Lakeland Hills Boulevard. He is known for his work in treating patients suffering from chronic pain and has been associated with the clinic for several years.
As of this publication, Watson Clinic has not issued a public statement regarding the arrest or whether Dr. Amin’s employment status is under review. The clinic is one of the most recognized healthcare providers in the region, and this incident has already sparked concern among patients and community members.
Community Reaction
The arrest of a local physician in a public intoxication incident has prompted widespread attention on social media and within the Lakeland medical community. Some have expressed disappointment, while others await further clarification from the clinic and legal proceedings.
“It’s shocking to hear, especially from someone who’s supposed to be a caregiver,” said a local resident who frequents the area. “We all make mistakes, but you expect professionalism from people in positions of trust.”
Others noted the broader concern about mental health and professional burnout among healthcare providers, particularly those working in high-stress fields like pain management.
Legal and Professional Implications
Dr. Amin’s charge of Disorderly Conduct is a second-degree misdemeanor in Florida, which could carry penalties including up to 60 days in jail, a $500 fine, or probation, depending on the outcome of legal proceedings. If convicted, this could also lead to disciplinary review by the Florida Board of Medicine, though no action has been taken at this time.
The case remains under investigation, and Dr. Amin is expected to make a court appearance in the coming days.
Watson Clinic and Dr. Amin’s legal representatives have not responded to media inquiries as of now. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
If you witnessed the incident or have additional details, you are encouraged to contact the Lakeland Police Department’s non-emergency line.
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