Jacksonville, Ark. (KATV) — Newly obtained police records are shedding light on the arrest of Jacksonville City Council member Michael Dietz.
The Jacksonville Police Department’s body camera video shows Dietz was arrested February 20 at his home. He was booked on charges including aggravated assault, resisting arrest, and refusing a chemical test before being released on bond.
Dietz is the father of Lindsey Jones, the former principal of Bayou Meto Elementary School, who was terminated right before Dietz’ arrest, following a personnel hearing.
According to police reports, Dietz showed up at Pinewood Elementary School, where the hearing was held. After the hearing ended, Dietz allegedly got into an argument with JNPSD Assistant Superintendent Bobby Lester and district security.
A JPD report says Dietz allegedly got back in his car, reversed, and drove toward Lester, prompting officers to go to his home later that night, where he resisted arrest.
A letter from Prosecuting Attorney Will Jones’ office, dated December 30, 2025, urged Dietz to cease contact with Lester due to prior incidents of aggression.
Video from the body cam shows officers repeatedly telling Dietz to comply:
“Get off me now, said Dietz, while officers responded, “Stop resisting or you will be tased.”
A relative of Dietz tried to calm him:
“I know how upset you are. I know what they did to your daughter, I know all that.”
Officers ultimately took Dietz into custody, and he was later released on bond.
The City of Jacksonville issued a statement:
“The City of Jacksonville holds all elected officials to high standards of conduct. While this matter is unrelated to official City duties, we recognize the seriousness of the allegations and will allow the legal process to move forward without interference.”