JONESBORO, Ark. — Police in Jonesboro used traffic cameras and witness information to identify and apprehend a man accused of attempting to steal a vehicle earlier this week.
According to a probable cause affidavit, officers responded to a breaking or entering in progress on Madison Avenue on Aug. 8. The victim told police he found a man, later identified as 31-year-old Terrance Deshun Hampton of Blytheville, sitting inside his unlocked vehicle.
Police said Hampton had gone through the vehicle and located a spare key hidden inside. He attempted to use the key to start the car but was stopped when the vehicle’s owner confronted him. According to the affidavit, Hampton told the victim he was “trying to get home.” The two struggled briefly, and the victim removed Hampton before he could leave the scene.
The victim warned Hampton that he was calling the police, prompting Hampton to flee the area. Officers began a search and, using descriptions of his clothing and footage from nearby intersection cameras, located Hampton on Main Street. Police arrested him in connection with the incident and on several separate out-of-town warrants.
On Monday, Craighead County District Judge David Boling found probable cause to charge Hampton with breaking or entering and theft of a vehicle valued between $1,000 and $5,000. Both charges are classified as D felonies under Arkansas law.
Hampton is currently being held at the Craighead County Detention Center on a $5,000 cash or surety bond. According to court documents, he has requested access to treatment court and reportedly struggles with fentanyl addiction. His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 30.