Suspect Accused of Kicking, Spitting at Law Enforcement in Jonesboro

JONESBORO, Ark. — A man is accused of aggravated assault law enforcement and numerous other charges after a disturbance on Tuesday in Jonesboro.

On January 14, officers with the Jonesboro Police Department responded to the 800 block of Alex Drive for a disturbance, according to the probable cause affidavit. Officers were let into the residence by Joshua Shipman, who they noted showed signs of intoxication.

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While speaking with officers, Shipman suggested that he be placed in handcuffs. He then refused to provide his date of birth when asked. When officers went to place him in handcuffs, he began to actively resist. Officers went to the floor with him.

During the struggle, the affidavit said Shipman kicked a Jonesboro officer in the leg. He was led outside to a patrol vehicle for transport when he struck the side of the vehicle with his head, causing a small dent in the vehicle.

Shipman’s mother stated he shoved her into a while while she was attempting to calm him down, the affidavit said. His sister stated she was also attempting to calm Shipman at which time he struck her in the face with the back of his hand. Neither sustained injury.

After being transported to the Craighead County Detention Center, the affidavit said Shipman continued to act in a combative manner and then spit in the face of a jailer.

Joshua Kyle Shipman, 36, of Jonesboro, faces a list of charges that include:

• Aggravated Assault Against a First Responder (Law Enforcement Officer/Correctional Facility Employee), a Class C felony
• Resisting Arrest, a Class A misdemeanor
• First-Degree Criminal Mischief, a Class A misdemeanor
• Second-Degree Assault, a Class B misdemeanor
• Second-Degree Assault on a Family or Household Member, a Class B misdemeanor
• Third-Degree Assault on a Family or Household Member, a Class C misdemeanor
• Obstructing Governmental Operations, a Class C misdemeanor

Although Shipman appeared before Judge Tommy Fowler for his probable cause hearing on Friday, his bond had already been set by Circuit Judge Scott Ellington at $125,000 cash or surety. A GPS ankle monitor is required and a no-contact order was also issued.

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