AUGUST 25, 2020
The Arkansas State Police has been requested to investigate an incident that occurred yesterday (Monday, August 24th) in Plumerville. Authorities within the Plumerville Police Department made the request for assistance to Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division.
Michael Gentry, 30, was hospitalized after being shot by a Plumerville police officer as Gentry allegedly approached the officer with a meat cleaver. Gentry’s wound is not believed to be life threatening.
Local police had earlier encountered Gentry at a city park regarding a domestic dispute. Gentry began to fight officers and fled to a nearby residence where he was shot.
Gentry is presently facing criminal charges of criminal mischief, fleeing, and two counts of aggravated assault.
Questions relating to the identity of the officer who fired his gun and the administrative status of the officer should be directed to the Plumerville Police Department.
The Arkansas State Police will prepare an investigative case file and submit it to the prosecuting attorney to determine whether the use of deadly force by a law enforcement officer is consistent with Arkansas laws.