xAn Itta Bena man is saying he was needlessly pepper-sprayed by Itta Bena police Christmas night.
Timmy Haymore said Tuesday that he had complained Monday afternoon about his treatment at the hands of the officers to Itta Bena Mayor Walter Parker and Police Chief Robert Kirklin.
Kirklin said Tuesday he is continuing his investigation into the matter.
Haymore was charged with disorderly conduct and threatening a police officer. He bonded out at the Itta Bena Police Department.
According to Haymore, it all started innocently enough at a nightclub known as the Blues Club in downtown Itta Bena.
“We went out for Christmas. There were three officers already in the club. I shook all three of their hands and wished them a Merry Christmas,” Haymore said.
Around 10:30 p.m., a member of Haymore’s party left to go outside to buy some cigarettes, he said.
When the woman returned, Haymore said he asked her about his cigarettes. The woman jokingly cursed at him within earshot of the officers.
Haymore said the salty encounter with the woman, described as “a friend of the family,” was harmless fun.
The officers came over and asked what the commotion was about.
Haymore said he was asked by the owner of the club to leave, and told that once he cooled down, he could return.
“I’m going to my damn car,” Haymore said he told police after being escorted out the door.
According to Haymore, the officers were informed that he had a gun in his car, so they followed Haymore out.
When Haymore turned to talk with the officers, he said he was pepper-sprayed in the face.
Once he was arrested, Haymore said the officers didn’t even search his car for a weapon.
Parker requested that Haymore write down his chronology of events and present it to the Board of Aldermen meeting Jan. 3.
Kirklin said his initial investigation appears to support the position that the officers acted in a lawful manner and were in compliance with departmental policy.
“It appears to be legit,” the chief said, referring to Haymore’s arrest.
Kirklin said he wouldn’t fail to act if he detected wrongdoing on the part of his officers, adding, “I would be the first to suspend somebody.”
• Contact Bob Darden at bdarden@gwcommonwealth.com.
