Today, Sheriff Marty Boyd presented Drug Task Force Investigator Deputy Daniel Willey with a Special Commendation Award.
On January 23rd, the Jonesboro Police Department Criminal Investigations Division requested assistance from the Jonesboro Police Department SWAT team in executing an arrest and search warrant for an armed, violent, and mentally unstable individual. As the SWAT team began mission planning, the Drug Task Force (DTF) was tasked with surveillance of the residence.
The suspect, who had previously made threats against law enforcement and was suffering from a mental health crisis, posed a significant danger.
During the surveillance, Agent Willey received a phone call from the suspect, who claimed to have shot at intruders the night before and possibly killed one. Despite the suspect’s clearly deteriorating mental state, Agent Willey maintained a calm and professional conversation, ultimately ending the call. Following this, Agent Willey took the initiative to meet with the SWAT Commander and offered to approach the suspect’s residence in an undercover capacity to attempt to peacefully resolve the situation.
Agent Willey’s skillful negotiation and de-escalation tactics led to a peaceful resolution without requiring a SWAT intervention. He was able to convince the suspect to voluntarily leave the residence and ride with him to the police station, where the suspect turned himself in.
Agent Willey’s actions on this day demonstrate outstanding quick thinking, negotiation skills, and a deep commitment to resolving a dangerous situation without resorting to violence. His calm demeanor, coupled with his ability to gain valuable intelligence and persuade the suspect to surrender peacefully, helped prevent what could have been a tragic and violent encounter.
Agent Willey’s actions during this critical incident showed bravery and professionalism, reflecting the highest law enforcement standards.