Hot Spring County deputies placed on leave

The two Hot Spring County deputies who were arrested by the Saline County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday have been placed on leave by the Hot Spring County Sheriff’s Office, according to a news release.

Lt. Darrell Pierce was arrested and charged with second-degree assault. Cpl. Robert Campbell was arrested and charged with thirddegree battery.

About 11:40 a.m. on Wednesday deputies with the Saline County Sheriff’s Office responded to the address 17186 U.S. 70 in reference to a possible assault.

Upon arrival, deputies made contact with the victim who appeared to have redness and swelling to his facial area. The victim stated that he was dropped off at the location by two Hot Spring County deputies after leaving their detention facility, according to the release.

The victim advised the deputies removed him from the vehicle when they arrived at the above listed address.

According to the victim he was then pushed to the ground, when he got back up he was struck in the face by one deputy and the other deputy sprayed him with pepper spray. Once the victim was able to regain sight and stand up, the vehicle and deputies were gone, according to the release.

The news release from Hot Spring County Sheriff’s Office states an internal investigation was launched immediately upon notification of the arrests.

The ongoing investigation revealed that the two of the Hot Spring County detention center employees were the two people involved.

“HSCO does not condone or tolerate any potential violation of policy or law,” the release states.

The victim was transported by medical personnel for treatment and then later released.