JONESBORO, Ark. — An 18-year-old was arrested over the weekend after police say he assaulted a medical staff member and made threats while being treated at a medical facility.
According to a probable cause affidavit from the Jonesboro Police Department, officers responded on Jan. 3, 2026, to the 2700 block of East Johnson in reference to a disturbance in progress. Although not identified in the affidavit, St. Bernards Behavioral Health is located at the address.
Investigators said Kendal Reed became upset after being informed he could not leave the facility. Reed allegedly stated that he would rather be in jail before striking the alleged victim in the face with an open hand. Police said the alleged victim is a medical staff member at the facility.
The alleged victim, along with other medical staff members, attempted to restrain Reed due to his alleged aggressive behavior. Officers said Reed continued to actively resist and fight staff members during the restraint and allegedly stated that he would kill the victim.
When officers arrived, they reported observing visible swelling and redness on the alleged victim’s face, as well as a knot above the victim’s right eye. The victim told police the injury occurred while staff members were attempting to restrain Reed to prevent further injury to staff and other patients.
Reed was arrested and charged with second-degree battery against medical personnel and first-degree terroristic threatening. Both charges are Class D felonies.
Bond was set by Judge Barbara Halsey at $50,000 cash or surety, and a no-contact order was issued.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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