BEDFORD – A Bedford man was arrested Monday morning following a traffic stop for speeding, which allegedly escalated into resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.
As Officer Jones approached the vehicle after observing the driver’s door open, the male driver, 37-year-old Zachary Payton, allegedly became highly agitated and began yelling. Payton reportedly refused when asked to exit the vehicle, stating, “I ain’t getting out of the ‘explicitive’ car.” After a second request, Payton again refused, and when Officer Jones attempted to gain control of his arm, Payton allegedly pulled away forcefully.
Officer Jones then called for backup. Due to Payton’s behavior, Officer Jones drew his taser and gave multiple commands for Payton to exit the vehicle, which were allegedly ignored. Payton eventually exited the vehicle but reportedly bladed his right side towards the officer and leaned against it, refusing multiple commands to turn around. When Officer Jones attempted to grab Payton’s arm again, he allegedly pulled away and swatted the officer’s hand.
According to the affidavit, due to Payton’s continued erratic and confrontational behavior, Officer Jones deployed his taser. Once Payton was on the ground, he allegedly resisted being handcuffed by pulling his right arm away. After being handcuffed, Payton was escorted to a patrol vehicle.
Payton was then transported to IU Health Bedford for medical clearance. While in the emergency room lobby, he allegedly continued his abusive behavior by yelling in the presence of other patients, even after being instructed to stop. Payton was transported to the Lawrence County Jail for housing following medical clearance.
Payton’s vehicle was left in his wife’s possession.
Payton was arrested on charges of resisting arrest by force and disorderly conduct. He was also issued a citation for speeding.
All criminal defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
