On December 13, 2025, Howell County deputies responded to reports of an intoxicated man jumping into traffic near Private Road 1511. Deputies Brandon Barnes and Blaise Dudding located the individual, identified as Clayton, walking near State Route N.
Deputies noted multiple signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, imbalance, and the odor of alcohol. Clayton was detained after refusing to cooperate and making aggressive statements. During the encounter, he attempted to walk into traffic and resisted efforts to place him in a patrol vehicle. While resisting, Clayton allegedly kicked Deputy Barnes in the thigh and groin and continued to physically struggle.
Clayton was transported to Howell County Jail on a 24-hour hold. During transport, deputies reported that he made repeated threats of violence, including claims that he had slipped his restraints and possessed a knife. Upon arrival at the jail, Clayton refused to exit the vehicle and wedged himself inside, prompting deputies to deploy a taser before removing him safely.
Clayton was placed in a restraint chair for observation. Deputies noted they had multiple contacts with him in the prior 24 hours due to his intoxicated and aggressive behavior. He is charged with Assault in the 3rd Degree on a Special Victim and Resisting/Interfering with Arrest for a Felony. His bond was set at $25,000.
