Arkansas Trooper’s Use of Force on Teen Sparks Legal Action and Public Outcry

An incident involving an Arkansas State Trooper, Moisses Arellano, and an 18-year-old woman, Alisa Hackett, has gained widespread attention. During a traffic stop, Arellano was captured on video punching Hackett after instructing her to stop resisting arrest.

Details of the Incident

The event, captured on social media, shows Trooper Arellano taking Hackett to the ground and hitting her during the encounter on August 1. Hackett, hailing from Osceola, has since filed a federal lawsuit and hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump.

“This trooper slammed an 18-year-old girl to the ground and punched her in the face,” Crump stated.

According to Crump, the trooper admitted in his report to using a closed fist when Hackett did not roll onto her stomach as instructed. Crump has demanded a public explanation from state police regarding Arellano’s actions.

The Video’s Content

Warning: This footage may be disturbing. The video shows the back of Hackett’s vehicle while audio captures a conversation between two officers. Arellano reported stopping Hackett for speeding.

Arellano discussed writing a ticket for improper hazard light use, as Hackett used them due to a broken window and had a bottle of unopened alcohol in the car. The trooper learned she had previously been warned about alcohol and decided a new citation was necessary.

After the phone call, Arellano approached Hackett’s vehicle, asking her to join him at the rear of the car. He instructed her to place her hands on the trunk, which she did. Subsequent attempts to restrain her led to the physical confrontation.

Hackett pleaded to call her mother and insisted she had done nothing wrong. Arellano, denying her requests, physically restrained her, leading to the recorded punch and further struggle.

Charges and Legal Developments

Following the incident, Hackett faces charges including improper display of tags, unlawful alcohol possession, and resisting arrest. Attorney Crump has called for an investigation into the trooper’s use of force.

The Arkansas State Police have refrained from commenting on the pending litigation. However, they confirmed that Arellano remains on active duty.

The NAACP has also called for an independent investigation, pressing for the release of all recordings related to the incident. They emphasize public accountability as crucial for trust in law enforcement.

Impact on Hackett

Hackett, unable to comment, allegedly suffers from ongoing physical and emotional distress. Her mother stated Hackett believed she was following orders and did not understand she was being arrested.

Arellano, who has been with Arkansas State Police since September, did not respond to messages seeking comment. His conduct remains under internal review by the agency.

“Eleven days later, he is still on the road with a badge and a gun,” Crump noted, questioning the absence of immediate disciplinary action.

The legal actions and public scrutiny continue as calls for a thorough investigation and policy reevaluation grow.