Use of Force Justified

HOPE – The use of deadly force by a Hempstead County deputy in a recent traffic stop was justified, according to a letter from Prosecuting Attorney Christi McQueen to Hempstead County Sheriff James Singleton.

Deputy Jim Bush shot and injured Chase Ray Alford along Interstate 30 near Hope last month.

McQueen said in the letter that Arkansas State Police Special Agent John Rhone spoke to her regarding his official investigation. She said she has viewed the video from the incident from the vantage points of the body cameras worn by Deputy Bush ans Deputy Manuel Rodriguez, who was assisting. The camera from Bush’s patrol unit dashcam was also viewed.

“It is clear from the footage that when Deputy Bush arrive at the scene, Alford was outside his vehicle which was parked on the should of Interstate 30. With blue lights activated on his patrol unit, Deputy Bush drove up behind Alford’s vehicle and situated himself outside his patrol unit on the driver’s side. Deputy Rodriguez arrive on the scene and situated himself on on the passenger side of Bush’s unit. Alford was holding in his hand what appeared to me a machete.”

McQueen’s letter continues, “Deputy Bush twice identified himself as “Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office.” Alford removed what appeared to be a knife from his pants pocket. He held the machete in one hand and the knife in the other. Deputy Bush repeatedly directed Alford to drop his weapons, but he refused to do so. Alford, still holding the weapons, walked toward Deputy Rodriguez despite continually being told by Deputy Bush to drop his weapons. Deputy Bush then fired his service weapon three times, striking Alford one time in the chest, causing a non-fatal injury. Before firing, Deputy Bush commanded Alford to drop his weapons 22 times.”

“In my opinion, Officer Bush reasonably and necessarily acted in defense of a third party, Deputy Rodriquez, in his use of deadly force against Alford. Such action is justified under Arkansas law. No criminal charges will be filed against Deputy Bush,” McQueen stated.