A video of Arkansas Trooper Marcus Moisses Arellano’s actions during a traffic stop involving an 18-year-old Black woman has ignited a firestorm of criticism and demands for a thorough investigation into potential use-of-force violations. The incident, captured on camera, details the trooper’s confrontation with Hackett, who was allegedly rushing home after a broken window in her vehicle, and the subsequent arrest and subsequent actions of Arellano and other officers.
On August 1, approximately 10:45 p.m., the Arkansas State Police reported that Trooper Moisses Arellano was pulled over by a trooper on State Highway 18 near Manila. According to the report, the vehicle’s hazard lights were activated, and the vehicle’s speed was determined to be 71 mph in a 60 mph zone. The report further states that Hackett was identified as the driver, and the vehicle’s license plate was covered.
Arellano was subsequently informed by another trooper that Hackett had been pulled over for speeding and had an open alcohol container in the vehicle, but was let go with a warning. The report indicates that Arellano then initiated a verbal confrontation with Hackett, using a closed-fist strike to the left side of her face, according to the police report. The video footage shows Hackett resisting this action, repeatedly demanding to be removed from the vehicle and stating, “You cannot punch me in my face.” The police report details that the trooper then deployed a stun gun, but did not fire it, and Hackett complied.
Following the incident, Hackett was arrested for refusing to submit to arrest, possession of alcohol by a minor, speeding, improper display of license tags, and an offense for improper headlights. The incident has sparked a significant debate within the Arkansas law enforcement community, with prominent civil rights attorneys Ben Crump expressing his concern that the use of force was excessive and potentially unlawful. He urged the Office of Professional Standards to open a use-of-force investigation, release prior reports, and examine the incident.
The Arkansas Department of Public Safety initially declined to comment on the situation, stating that they would not comment on matters pending litigation. However, the state’s Attorney Luther Sutter filed a civil rights lawsuit against Arellano on Hackett’s behalf, alleging that the trooper’s actions constituted excessive force. The lawsuit alleges that the trooper slammed an 18-year-old girl to the ground and punched her in the face, and that the use of force was excessive and unjustified. Hackett has stated that she is switching her representation to Crump, according to local news outlet NEA Report.
As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and authorities are examining the video footage for any evidence of policy violations. The incident has drawn attention to the potential for officers to escalate situations with excessive force, particularly when dealing with young individuals, and underscores the importance of clear policies and procedures regarding use-of-force.”
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Source: CBS News
