On April 15, 2026, at approximately 3:15 a.m., I, Sergeant Charles Tredway with the White Hall Police Department, was patrolling the area of Highway 256 and Interstate 530 when I observed an abandoned silver Hyundai SUV on the southbound off-ramp of Exit 32, blocking the lane of traffic.
I positioned my patrol unit behind the vehicle and ran the temporary Arkansas tag (DB652632) through A.C.I.C./N.C.I.C. Dispatch advised the vehicle returned to the last name “Stapleton,” with no additional information available.
I then attempted to locate any occupant(s) of the vehicle to check their welfare and determine why the vehicle was blocking the roadway. While traveling eastbound on Highway 256 near the intersection of Ellen Drive, I observed a white male wearing dress pants, a white T-shirt, and a button-up shirt walking westbound.
I made contact with the individual, who was identified as Wilfred Knapp. I identified myself and explained the reason for the contact. I asked Knapp where he was going, and he stated he was going to his girlfriend’s house. When asked for the location, he initially pointed west. Upon further questioning, he stated she lived in Sheridan.
While speaking with Knapp, I detected a strong odor of intoxicants emitting from his person. Knapp also exhibited slurred speech and bloodshot, watery eyes, Knapp was also swaying back and forth indicating Knapp was unable to keep his balance. Based on my training and experience, I determined Knapp was intoxicated.I asked Knapp if the abandoned vehicle belonged to him. Knapp stated he did not want to answer questions. Due to his level of intoxication, I requested his identification. Knapp initially refused. I advised him that failure to provide identification would result in an Obstructing charge. Knapp then complied and provided his identification card.
Knapp stated he had already contacted Smith’s Towing Service to retrieve the vehicle. I again asked why the vehicle was left on the off-ramp. Knapp stated he did not want to drink and drive and decided to walk to his girlfriend’s residence.At that time, I placed Knapp under arrest for Public Intoxication. During a search incident to arrest, I located the vehicle keys in his pant pocket. I also located paperwork consistent with a support group for individuals with addiction, indicating Knapp had attended a meeting earlier that day. When asked why he had been drinking after attending the meeting, Knapp stated he suffers from depression and PTSD from his service in the Marine Corps.
Officer Torres remained on scene with Smith’s Wrecking Service, which took possession of the vehicle.
Knapp was transported to the White Hall Police Department. I contacted both the Sheridan Detention Center and Dub Brassell Detention Center to arrange booking; however, both facilities declined due to Knapp’s level of intoxication.
Knapp was then transported to the Lincoln County Detention Center, where he was accepted and booked on the charge of Public Intoxication.
Knapp was issued a citation for Public Intoxication with a court date of May 6, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. in White Hall City Court.
The vehicle was determined to be registered to Melissa Stapleton of North Little Rock, identified as Knapp’s girlfriend. The vehicle was towed to Smith’s Towing Service and will be released upon proof of ownership.
