Benton State Trooper Arrested, Faces Several Charges Related to Domestic Incident
In a stark contrast to the professionalism they uphold as law enforcers, a Benton State Trooper found himself on the wrong side of the law after facing allegations of a violent domestic incident.
Arrest Circumstances
The incident unfolded early in the morning of November 5, with the Saline County Sheriff’s Office responding to a distress call from the trooper’s home on Point View Road. The call came in at 7:27 am, setting off a chain of events that would lead to the trooper’s arrest.
Charges and Details
Sgt. Brandon Lofton, a 41-year-old trooper from Benton, was charged with several serious offenses:
– Aggravated Assault on a Family or Household Member: A severe form of assault that involves physical harm inflicted on a family member.
– Two counts of felony Terroristic Threatening: Threats made with the intent to frighten or intimidate, particularly those involving harm or violence.
– Two counts of Third-Degree Domestic Battery: Physical abuse of a family member or household member.
– First-Degree Interference with Emergency Communications: Interfering with emergency communications, such as 911 calls, during the altercation.
Immediate Actions
Following his arrest, Sgt. Lofton was taken into custody and transported to the Saline County Detention Center. He has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation by the Arkansas State Police (ASP).
Investigation Efforts
The Saline County Sheriff’s Office is also conducting an independent investigation into the incident. ASP has assured that such allegations are taken very seriously and that a thorough internal investigation will be conducted through their Office of Professional Standards.
Career Background
Sgt. Brandon Lofton has been a member of the Arkansas State Police since 2009, dedicating nearly two decades to serving and protecting the community. However, this incident has shocked both the police department and the community, raising questions about maintaining the highest standards of integrity within law enforcement.
Community Reaction
News of the arrest has sparked a mix of shock and concern among residents. The actions of a law enforcement officer accused of such serious crimes are particularly noteworthy, highlighting the need for accountability within institutions tasked with upholding the law.
As the investigations continue, it remains clear that such incidents underscore the gravity of domestic violence and the importance of addressing it swiftly and severely. The community is closely following this case, hoping for justice and clarity as it unfolds.
