Little Rock, Arkansas – A former Jonesboro Police Department officer has pleaded guilty to charges stemming from a 2024 incident involving excessive use of force against a detainee, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Joseph Tucker Harris, 29, of Hickman, Kentucky, entered his guilty plea in Craighead County Circuit Court. According to Arkansas State Police (ASP) authorities, Harris pleaded guilty to the felony charge of filing a false report with a law enforcement agency, along with a misdemeanor charge of third-degree battery.
The incident, which took place on August 15, 2024, drew immediate attention after concerns were raised about Harris’s conduct during the arrest of a detainee. Arkansas State Police officials said the case was referred to them for investigation by 2nd Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Sonia Hagood, who called for a thorough review of the matter after it occurred.
“Following an investigation, it became clear that the actions taken by Officer Harris did not meet the standards expected of law enforcement,” said an ASP spokesperson. The investigation, conducted by the ASP Criminal Investigation Division, ultimately led to Harris’s arrest on January 21, 2025, several months after the incident.
Craighead County Circuit Judge Scott Ellington handed down a sentence for Harris that includes 120 days of confinement and four years of probation. Under the terms of his sentence, Harris will serve 30 days in the Craighead County Detention Center, with the remaining 90 days served under monitored home confinement.
“This resolution reflects the importance of accountability within law enforcement and the need to maintain public trust,” Judge Ellington stated during the hearing.
The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of excessive force and transparency within police departments. Harris’s guilty plea marks the conclusion of a legal process that began with public and prosecutorial concern over the conduct of an on-duty officer.
The Craighead County Circuit Court proceedings also included discussions on the legal and professional consequences of Harris’s actions. As part of the probationary measures, Harris will be required to adhere strictly to reporting and conduct requirements, aimed at preventing any future incidents.
While the case is now closed in court, local officials and community leaders continue to emphasize the importance of accountability and adherence to proper policing standards. The Arkansas State Police noted that their investigation protocols will continue to ensure that allegations of misconduct are thoroughly reviewed.
Harris’s guilty plea and sentencing serve as a reminder that officers are not above the law and that legal and ethical standards apply equally to law enforcement personnel. As communities in Jonesboro and across Arkansas reflect on the incident, public safety and trust remain key priorities for local authorities.
