Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Oct. 31, 2024 – A Bay man was charged with battery Wednesday after allegedly beating up an 81-year-old man.
On Oct. 26, Jonesboro police were informed of a domestic incident. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with the 81-year-old victim who had “bloody arms and a very swollen left eye.”
The victim told officers that his friend, 55-year-old Thomas White, who he was allowing to live at his home on Lunsford Street, had beat him up. He said they were arguing about who would pay for a pizza delivery when White “came after him and started hitting him.” The victim added that he went to his neighbor’s house for help. He told officers White was still inside his home.
After emergency medical services and another officer arrived, a passerby told officers there was someone laying in the victim’s yard. Officers made contact with White, who appeared to have just fallen through a wooden gate. When an officer asked White his name, White reportedly provided false information multiple times, would not take a seat when asked and was swaying.
According to the probable cause affidavit, officers smelled alcohol White’s breath. He told officers he and the victim were arguing, and that he’d gone outside to cool down. When asked how the victim got hurt, White said he fell.
When a backup unit arrived, White was arrested and transported to the Craighead County Detention Center. The victim was taken to NEA Hospital for care.
White was charged with one count of 2nd degree battery. He was given a $50,000 cash or surety bond and a court date of Nov. 14 at 8:30 a.m. Conditions of the bond include an ankle monitor and a no-contact order with the victim.
