Paragould Man Accused of Running Over, Dragging Victim Amid Argument

PARAGOULD, Ark. – A man faces charges, including aggravated assault, after an altercation where he is alleged to have driven over a woman and dragged her a short distance. Fortunately, the woman was not seriously injured.

On July 26, 2024, the Paragould Police Department responded to Gene Street following reports from witnesses of an altercation, the probable cause affidavit said. The witnesses said a vehicle backed up fast into the front yard, then accelerated quickly out of the driveway. After that, a female was left lying in the yard and yelling in distress.

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The victim reported she and the suspect were arguing over property that was in his vehicle. The victim said she attempted to retrieve her property from the vehicle when he accelerated in reverse through the yard, causing her to fall onto her back in the yard. From there, she told police he accelerated quickly out of the yard and ran over her legs, actually dragging her a short distance.

Authorities noted the victim sustained injuries to both legs and her elbow. Police also observed tire markings on her. The victim declined medical services.

Police located the suspect driving slowly on a cross street next to the house and stopped him. Officers noticed he smelled of intoxicants and displayed several other signs of impairment.

Jimmy L. Cooper, 42, of Paragould, was arrested for aggravated assault and driving while intoxicated, first offense. Bond was set at $10,000 cash only by Judge Dan Stidham. A no contact order was also set for the victim.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.