In December 2023, Officer Jonathan Murphy allegedly assaulted Bernard Mael during a traffic stop, punching him multiple times and using a Taser without warning. Murphy was charged with assault and providing false information, as he falsely claimed Mael struck him with a vehicle. Mael filed a civil lawsuit against Murphy, another officer, and the City of Bethel, alleging permanent brain damage from the incident. Murphy resigned from the department and was later hired as police chief in Diamond City, Arkansas. ([kyuk.org](https://www.kyuk.org/public-safety/2024-12-11/former-bethel-police-officers-city-of-bethel-named-in-civil-suit-for-alleged-assault-of-man-in-2023?utm_source=openai))
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