A reportedly homeless man who claimed to be "tripping out" on bath salts was arrested late Monday after allegedly locking himself in the restroom of a local fast food restaurant, then forcing his way into a nearby residence.
David Taber, 33, was arrested at 9 p.m. and charged with first-degree criminal mischief, a felony punishable by up to six years in prison, and public intoxication, a misdemeanor punishable by up to 30 days in jail.
The employees of Arby's, 3020 Central Ave., told Hot Springs police that a man, later identified as Taber, had locked himself in the men's bathroom after he jumped over the cashier's counter and hid in the kitchen area.
Upon entering the restroom, the responding officer noticed the ceiling had been separated from the top of the wall. Broken ceiling tiles and insulation were scattered on the floor and a vent was hanging down from the ceiling.
Taber's belongings were located on the bathroom floor, including two empty cans of beer and several Tramadol pills scattered next to a prescription bottle in Taber's name. The restaurant manager estimated damages at around $5,000.
While officers were responding at the restaurant, another call came in regarding a male, matching Taber's description, forcing his way into a home in the 100 block of Higdon Ferry Road. Taber allegedly claimed he had someone following him, and he was trying to hide.
Officers located Taber inside the residence, and noted he smelled of alcohol, his eyes were bloodshot and watery and he was slurring his speech. According to the affidavit, he spontaneously told officers he had taken bath salts and was "tripping out."
Taber was positively identified by the restaurant manager and taken into custody.
After being read his rights, Taber told officers he tried to climb into the vents because he was fleeing from several unidentified males in more than five vehicles. Taber said he saw someone crawl through the vents on television and figured he could escape that way.
He said the damage occurred when he "fell out of the vents, and onto the floor." He allegedly admitted he had been drinking and had taken his prescribed Tramadol. He claimed he took bath salts in an attempt to "make (it) all go away."
Taber remained in custody Tuesday on bonds totaling $3,000 and is set to appear April 18 in Garland County District Court.
Local on 04/05/2017