One person is suffering from a gunshot wound following an altercation that police believe may have been predicated by a failed drug deal. Police in Jacksonville, Arkansas, have arrested a 21-year-old man and a 17-year-old male on suspicion of violent crimes. Both men have been taken into custody and are awaiting trial.
According to the police report, it appears two individuals who have not been publicly identified were attempting to buy drugs from the two accused men on the evening of July 21. During this alleged transaction, the two men apparently turned on their would-be customers and attempted to rob them. The incident report goes on to say the 17-year-old produced a handgun when the alleged buyers attempted to flee in their vehicle.
Apparently the 17-year-old fired several times at the retreating car, damaging the vehicle and injuring one of the two occupants. Thankfully, this injury is not believed to be life-threatening. The 21-year-old and the 17-year-old were tracked down by police a short time later and taken into custody, where they have been charged with first-degree battery, terroristic acts, aggravated robbery and several other misdemeanor charges.
Violent crimes, especially when perpetrated as part of a larger criminal act, can carry heavy penalties here in Arkansas. This is particularly true for the young person allegedly involved in this altercation, who could be tried as an adult. However, prosecutors will have to prove the circumstances outlined in the report. Each charged individual will be represented in court by a criminal defense attorney who will also review the report as part of building strong cases in each man’s defense.