Arkansas Officer Fired After Alleged Assault on Handcuffed Man
An Arkansas police officer has been terminated following the release of a disturbing video, which appears to show him physically assaulting a handcuffed individual in the back of a patrol vehicle. The incident has raised serious concerns regarding police conduct and accountability.
Jonesboro Police Respond to Incident
The Jonesboro Police Department announced on August 9 that they had received a “serious nature” complaint concerning the incident that took place the previous night. In a statement cited on social media, they confirmed the immediate dismissal of Officer Joseph Harris after an internal review.
Video Evidence Surfaces
The police department subsequently released footage on their official platforms, showing the harrowing moments where the officer is seen striking the individual, who was detained in a hospital gown and believed to have previously ingested a bag of fentanyl.
Response From Police Chief
Jonesboro Police Chief Rick Elliott has been in discussions with the FBI, with the federal agency’s Little Rock office reportedly opening an investigation into the matter. Local station KAIT received confirmation that federal involvement is part of ongoing efforts to ensure a thorough examination of the incident.
Details of the Video
The released video (accessible through the Jonesboro Police Department’s official channel) depicts alarming behavior. The individual can be heard expressing fears for his well-being, indicating that he may require immediate medical attention. In a troubling segment, video evidence shows the officer hitting the man repeatedly while he is seated in the patrol car.
Former Disciplinary Actions Against Harris
This incident with Officer Harris is not an isolated event. Reports indicate that he was previously penalized for the excessive use of force, receiving a 20-hour suspension alongside mandatory additional training. Furthermore, he was a named party in a wrongful death lawsuit filed earlier this year.
Further Developments Expected
The Jonesboro police department has stated that they are committed to transparency and accountability in this case, and further details will be released as the investigation unfolds. Community members and advocacy groups are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for police reform and justice for those affected.
