Police: Jonesboro Man Held Baby Between Himself and Armed Officers During Arrest

JONESBORO, Ark. — A Jonesboro man accused of ramming an occupied vehicle and holding a baby between himself and armed officers during his arrest is being held on a $150,000 bond.

Jeremiah Jones faces four counts of aggravated assault on a family or household member, resisting arrest and failure to yield to an emergency vehicle, according to court records.

Jonesboro police responded around 10:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, to a report of two vehicles ramming each other in a parking lot on East Highland Drive.

Officers saw a Dodge Charger matching the description of one of the vehicles leaving with visible front-end damage. Police activated their emergency lights and sirens, but Jones reportedly continued driving until he parked beneath a carport at a residence.

Officers initiated a high-risk traffic stop and ordered Jones to exit the vehicle. Although Jones got out, police said he refused commands to walk toward officers and yelled, “Just shoot me,” along with obscenities.

The affidavit said Jones then asked an older child at the residence to bring him a baby. Officers instructed the child to return inside, but the child handed the baby to Jones.

Police alleged Jones held the baby against his chest, positioning the child between himself and officers who had their weapons drawn.

Officers approached Jones and attempted to take him into custody. Jones allegedly resisted and tried to hold onto the baby during the struggle, placing the child at risk of serious injury. Police eventually arrested Jones, and no injuries were reported.

Investigators said the incident began when Jones became suspicious that a person with whom he was romantically involved was cheating. Evidence indicated Jones intentionally rammed that person’s occupied vehicle, which also contained a child, before leaving the scene, according to the affidavit.

Police said Jones’ actions endangered one adult and three children.

Jones appeared Wednesday, Aug. 12, before Circuit Judge Tommy Fowler. His bond was set at $150,000 cash or surety, and a no-contact order was issued. Court notes indicate Jones was on probation.

The public defender’s office was appointed to represent him. His next court appearance is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Sept. 30 at the Craighead County Courthouse.

Each aggravated assault charge is a Class D felony punishable by up to six years in prison.

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