A newly released dashcam video shows an Arkansas State Police trooper punching an 18-year-old Black woman in the face during a traffic stop on August 1, prompting calls for a use-of-force investigation.
The incident occurred when trooper Moisses Arellano pulled over Alisa Hackett on State Highway 18 near Manila at approximately 10:45 p.m. Hackett was cited for speeding (71 mph in a 60-mph zone), not wearing a seatbelt, and having a covered license plate. A sealed Tito’s vodka bottle was also observed in the front seat, though Arellano later confirmed it was unopened.
During the stop, Hackett told Arellano she was rushing home because her car window had broken. Arellano described her as ‘difficult’ while issuing citations. He then contacted another trooper, who mentioned Hackett had been stopped for speeding ‘a few days earlier’ and had an open alcohol container, but was released with a warning. The second trooper was heard saying, ‘Well, she got an attitude, take her ass to jail.’
Arellano decided to arrest Hackett, who is 5-foot-1 and 118 pounds. According to the Arkansas State Police report, she initially complied but then turned away and asked what she had done, pulling away from the officer. Arellano stated in his report that after multiple commands for her to roll over, he ‘delivered one closed-fist strike to the left side of her face in an attempt to gain compliance.’ The video shows Hackett being tackled to the ground before the punch is delivered.
Calls for Investigation
The footage has sparked public outrage and demands for an independent review of the trooper’s actions. Civil rights groups and local officials have called for transparency in the investigation, citing concerns over excessive force and racial bias in policing. The Arkansas State Police have not yet released a timeline for their review.
Trooper’s Justification
In his report, Arellano stated that Hackett continued resisting after the strike by pulling her wrists away. The Arkansas State Police have not publicly commented on whether the trooper’s use of force aligns with departmental policies.
Background on the Incident
The traffic stop occurred amid broader scrutiny of police use-of-force cases in Arkansas. Hackett’s legal representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment. The case has drawn comparisons to other high-profile incidents involving police use of force against Black individuals, though no official link has been established.
The Arkansas State Police have not provided additional details on whether Hackett faces charges related to the incident.