JONESBORO, Ark. — A Jonesboro man has been charged with felony tampering with physical evidence after he reportedly admitted to swallowing methamphetamine following a traffic stop, according to a probable cause affidavit.
David A. Riley, who was also cited for obstructing governmental operations, driving on a suspended license, and failing to provide proof of liability insurance, appeared before Special Judge Barbara Halsey. The judge found probable cause to charge Riley and set his bond at $30,000.
The incident occurred on November 6 around 11:49 p.m., when Jonesboro Police Officer B. Miller conducted a traffic stop on a white Nissan Versa near Race Street and Red Wolf Boulevard. Officer Miller’s affidavit states he was unable to verify the vehicle's insurance and initiated the stop.
According to the affidavit, Riley stepped out of the vehicle with his hands raised and appeared visibly distressed. Riley provided the officer with his name and date of birth, claiming he was not on probation, parole, or serving a suspended sentence. However, Officer Miller’s records check reportedly contradicted this statement, revealing that Riley was on parole, had an active parole warrant, and held a suspended license. Riley was taken into custody on the warrant and for obstructing governmental operations.
Following his arrest, Riley reportedly told officers he had swallowed methamphetamine and expressed a desire to die. Police suspected Riley ingested the substance to conceal it, according to the affidavit. He was transported to St. Bernards Medical Center for medical evaluation. The affidavit does not confirm whether medical staff determined Riley had ingested methamphetamine.
Riley is scheduled to appear in court on January 25, 2027, at 8:30 a.m. at the Craighead County Courthouse.
All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.