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JONESBORO, Ark. (KHBS, KHOG) — The NAACP Arkansas Conference is calling for an independent investigation into an incident involving an Arkansas State Police trooper and an 18-year-old woman during a traffic stop east of Jonesboro.
Barry Jefferson, president of the NAACP Arkansas Conference, said the investigation should be conducted by someone outside the state police agency.
“We just believe there should be an independent investigation, and I think that’s what we need to do instead of rushing to judgment. Because I don’t think we’ll see what’s on the video unless we have someone independent, besides the Arkansas State Police, investigate this so people can understand that they can trust their law enforcement or their government and make sure we do things the proper way, in the right way,” Jefferson said.
The woman, Alisa Hackett, is suing Trooper Moisses Arellano in federal court in eastern Arkansas. The lawsuit alleges excessive force, violations of free speech and battery.
Hackett was initially cited for speeding and being a minor in possession of alcohol. The situation escalated after Arellano informed her that her license would be confiscated and she was asked to sign a temporary license.
Dashcam footage obtained by 40/29 News shows Arellano moving to arrest Hackett. While attempting to place her in handcuffs, Arellano throws Hackett to the ground and speaks into his radio, saying she was resisting.
Arellano then hits Hackett.
Later in the footage, Arellano is heard saying, “Turn around. I’ll punch you again if you don’t turn around.” Hackett was on the ground underneath Arellano at that time.
Jefferson said the footage raised additional concerns for the NAACP.
“We saw the way he was talked to her, we saw him throw her on the ground. We saw all those things and those are very concerning to us,” Jefferson said. “And if we have someone independent, besides the Arkansas State Police, to investigate this so people can understand that they do trust their law enforcement or their government and to make sure we do things the proper way and the right way.”
An Arkansas State Police spokesperson told 40/29 News that the agency reviews all use-of-force incidents and that Arellano has not been placed on leave.
Hackett and her attorney have not yet commented on the lawsuit, which does not specify a monetary amount in damages being sought. Members of the Arkansas Black Caucus are scheduled to meet with the Arkansas State Police commander at the end of the month to discuss policies and training for state troopers.
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