Tennessee man arrested in Bell County after suspicious activity at school
Published 11:41 am Monday, September 9, 2024
A Tennessee man was arrested on Friday morning after pulling into the parking lot of the Bell County Area Technology Center on a motorcycle, acting suspicious and then becoming combative after being confronted by resource officers at the school.
Resource officers contacted the Kentucky State Police Post 10 for assistance and Trooper Keith Baker responded, according to WRIL. Once on scene, Trooper Baker found a man, later identified as 41-year-old Dustin Lawson of Heiskell, Tenn., off the motorcycle exhibiting erratic behavior consistent with being intoxicated.
A short time after being confronted by the officers, Lawson jumped on his motorcycle revving it attempting to flee and simultaneously run over the men. He was injured in the process when his bike fell over and landed on him.
He was brought under control and arrested on scene. Prior to being booked into the Bell County Detention Center he was taken to the Pineville Community Health Center for treatment of injuries.
Bell County Superintendent Tom Gambrel released a statement on the incident on Friday.
“A suspicious motorcyclist entered the parking area at the Bell County Area Technology Center. After observing the individual enter the parking area, the ATC principal contacted the SRO, who then contacted the Kentucky State Police. The State Police and SRO addressed the individual, during which time he became combative, leading to his arrest and removal from the property. Both agencies handled the incident and, due to their quick response, the individual never had an opportunity to enter any school building,” Gambrel said.
In an unrelated situation, a Bell County High School student required medical transport from the school for a medical condition. This occurred within the same time frame, but the incidents were not related.
“Any time an individual enters school property without a valid reason, we always use precaution to protect our students and staff members,” Gambrel said. “We appreciate the assistance of the Kentucky State Police and our School Resource Officers in handling the situation.”
Dustin Lawson was charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence – 1st degree, resisting arrest, possession of Marijuana, and wanton endangerment – 2nd degree – police officer.