During a recent legislative session in Little Rock, members of the Arkansas Black Caucus urged state officials to launch an independent investigation into State Trooper Moisses Arellano and to place him on administrative leave. The demand follows the release of dash‑camera footage that shows the trooper pulling 18‑year‑old Alisa Hackett to the ground and striking her repeatedly after she was stopped for alleged speeding and possession of alcohol as a minor.
Video evidence and immediate reaction
The video, which quickly spread on social media, captures Hackett repeatedly asking to call her mother and accusing the trooper of acting illegally. At one point, Arellano can be heard threatening, “I’ll punch you again if you don’t turn around.” The footage has sparked outrage among lawmakers, community leaders, and civil‑rights advocates who argue the incident reflects broader concerns about law‑enforcement accountability.
State police response
Arkansas State Police released a statement saying that every use‑of‑force incident is reviewed internally. In this case, the trooper was counseled for failing to properly identify himself and for using profanity, but he was not placed on leave. The internal review concluded that the force used was not excessive. No further disciplinary action was announced.
Legislative leaders weigh in
During the Tuesday legislative meeting, Public Safety Secretary and Arkansas State Police Director Colonel Mike Hagar was absent, citing a pending federal lawsuit. Black Caucus legislators criticized his lack of public comment on the department’s policies and procedures regarding use of force.
Barry Jefferson, president of the NAACP Arkansas State Conference, said, “Anybody should be upset. If anyone should be outraged, it should be you, because I don’t think he would do this to anyone else. But he did it to the Black Caucus.”
Political candidates join the call
Sen. Fred Love, a Democratic candidate for governor, expressed his disapproval, stating, “After seeing the video, I was appalled at the actions of the state trooper. I was always taught not to hit a woman.” He also urged Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders to address the incident directly.
Libertarian gubernatorial candidate Colt Shelby added, “We should have suspended the officer as soon as possible and then investigated why he punched the girl. There has to be accountability so we can regain public trust.”
Governor’s office remains silent
A spokesperson for Governor Sanders said it would be improper for her to comment while the case is under active litigation. The Black Caucus chair indicated that members are discussing next steps, including a formal resolution to place the trooper on leave pending an independent investigation.
Next steps and community impact
State police and Trooper Arellano have not issued further comments, and Hackett and her attorney have not responded to inquiries. The incident has reignited discussions in Arkansas about law‑enforcement transparency, the rights of minors during traffic stops, and the mechanisms for civilian oversight of state police.
Local advocacy groups are urging the legislature to consider stronger statutory requirements for independent investigations of police use‑of‑force incidents, emphasizing the need for policies that protect families and uphold constitutional rights.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
