Occurred in November of 2025 and they just released it as part of "transparency". The father (Edward Corristan) was found guilty of interference and disorderly conduct and the member, Sgt. Eddie Price, was cleared of any wrongdoing shortly after the incident.
Reviewing what we see in the video, Corristan approaches the police vehicle in a calm manner, despite his frustrations with the officer's handling of the matter. He is repeatedly told to step back, which he does by about one half step. Sgt. Price does not find this to be sufficient space and demands more, but Corristan refuses to comply. Instead, he puts his hands in the air to indicate that he has no intent of presenting himself as a threat.
Sgt. Price then, from a sitting position, stands up, pepper sprays Corristan and immediately punches his face to take him down and handcuff him, later attempting to "justify" his actions to the family of Corristan. Corristan appears to be unconscious, as the effects of the pepper spray are not obvious even though most individuals would have an immediate reaction. He is also is seen drooling while officers attempt to prop his body up to get him on his feet.
Pepper spray and strikes, especially to the face, are resources available to police to gain compliance from non-compliant and violent or potentially violent individuals, and should only be used when absolutely necessary. We look back to the standard of use of force within law enforcement to provide us with the framework for what is appropriate use of force. This framework outlines that only as much force as is necessary to perform the roles and functions of the task that is currently required.
If Sgt. Price wanted to make an arrest or detain Corristan for his refusal to comply, his first step should have been a request or demand to surrender himself to Sgt. Price's detention. This did not happen. If the first step did not happen and the demeanor of Corristan remained the same, Sgt. Price should be charged with battery and aggravated assault. Sgt. Price also leaves himself open to a civil suit from Corristan.
Arkansas State Police are now handling the matter and will hopefully lay charges or recommend dismissal or at least suspension of Sgt. Price.
The Mena Police Department should be ASHAMED of their inaction on this case. ASHAMED.