Court documents state a
man from Mount Pleasant was charged with multiple charges in Izard County after a traffic stop by Arkansas State Police.
63-year-old David Pettit, was traveling at a slow rate of speed with a rear taillight out, as ASP turned around to conduct a routine traffic stop Pettit pulled into a driveway. Pettit exited and was instructed to stop and show his hands to the trooper.
Pettit was asked if he had any weapons on his person, after being told no, the officer conducted a pat down and retrieved a folding buck knife.
ASP Troopers noted that Pettit was anxious, uneasy and uncooperative during the interaction. Pettit had an Altoids container in his pants pocket which was later found to contain methamphetamine.
Pettit was instructed to stand at the rear of his vehicle while the officer cleared it, the trooper then noticed Pettit was reaching down toward the ground.
The officer drew his service weapon but found Pettit was not holding anything but was messing with his left pant pocket according to the report.
Pettit produced a vape pen from his pocket and was asked a second time by the officer about the contents of the Altoids can. Pettit then began walking away from the officer when he was grabbed and a scuffle began.
Pettit was verbally warned numerous times to stop resisting before being tased twice.
After a brief scuffle, the trooper was able to detain Pettit, Izard County Deputies also arrived on scene to assist.
A search of Pettit’s vehicle turned up numerous items of drug paraphernalia located in the front seat as well as a loaded Taurus 9mm pistol.
Pettit refused medical attention and was transported to the Izard County Detention Center.
Pettit has been charged with simultaneous possession of drugs and firearms, a class Y felony; possession of a controlled substance, schedule II a class D felony; possession of drug paraphernalia; possession of a schedule VI controlled substance and resisting arrest.
Pettit was released on a $50,000 bond.