An Arkansas state trooper’s actions during a traffic stop have sparked controversy after a video surfaced showing him punching an 18-year-old woman, Alisa Hackett. The incident took place on August 1, with Trooper Moisses Arellano seen forcefully taking Hackett to the ground.
Hackett has since filed a federal lawsuit, represented by civil rights attorney Ben Crump. In a statement to Newsweek, Crump condemned Arellano’s actions and called for an explanation from state police. “If you cannot handle a teenage girl without taking her to the ground and punching her, you should not be wearing a badge,” Crump stated.
The Video
The video begins with footage from the police cruiser that stopped Hackett’s vehicle. Audio from the video captures a conversation between two officers. The trooper pulled Hackett over for driving 71 mph in a 60-mph zone. During the stop, it emerged that Hackett was using her hazard lights improperly, attempting to reach home quickly due to a broken window in her car. An unopened bottle of Tito’s vodka was also found in her vehicle.
Initially, Hackett received a warning for a similar incident days earlier. This time, the officers decided a citation alone would not suffice. Arellano then approached Hackett’s vehicle, instructing her to place her hands on the car’s trunk.
In the video, Hackett asked,”Sir, what did I do?” Arellano responded by trying to restrain her. As Hackett attempted to understand the situation by asking questions, the video shows Arellano taking her to the ground and hitting her.
Charges and Reactions
Hackett now faces five charges, including improper display of tags and being a minor in possession of alcohol. The case remains pending. Crump has urged the Arkansas State Police to investigate Arellano’s use of force and to release any related reports.
NAACP officials in Arkansas seek an independent investigation, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability within law enforcement.
Hackett’s mother stated that her daughter complied with Arellano’s instructions and did not understand she was being arrested.
Cindy Murphy, a spokeswoman for the Arkansas State Police, confirmed that Arellano remains on active duty, but did not comment on the lawsuit.
Hackett’s lawyer, Crump, is advocating for Arellano’s administrative leave during the investigation, stressing that continued duty sends a negative message to citizens.