2 months ago
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Monday workers were tearing down the seats at the Summit Arena in Hot Springs. Saturday night 2,000 fans filled the place for a Randy Houser concert. That night beer was one of the beverages available at the concession stands.
Officer McCrary Means says, "Two of our officers came in contact with an individual who apparently was somewhat intoxicated. They attempted to escort that subject out. He became argumentative with our officers."
Police say they gave 35-year-old Talmadge Johnson more than one chance to leave the arena, but Johnson refused.
According to the arresting officer's report, he attempted to remove Johnson by taking him by the arm and escorting him to the door. But Johnson yanked his arm away and pushed the officer with both his hands.
At that point the officer told Johnson he was under arrest. But Johnson continued to resist. The officer was forced to take out his pepper spray and use it to subdue Johnson and get the handcuffs on.
Police brought Johnson to the Garland County Detention Center. A search revealed two hydrocodone pills in a plastic bag
Charges of disorderly conduct, public intoxication, resisting arrest, and possession of a controlled substance were filed against Johnson.
He paid a bond of $2750 and was released. Garland County officials failed to take a booking photo of Johnson.
Hot Spring County Sheriff Ryan Burris says he has spoken to his chief deputy and his account of the incident is much different than the arresting officer's.
Burris says Chief Deputy Johnson will remain at work until the legal matters are resolved. Burris may consider punitive measures at that point.
Johnson has hired an attorney to fight the charges. The controlled substance charge is a felony. If that charge is not reduced and Johnson is convicted, he would no longer be allowed to work in law enforcement.
