After a sequence of events that allegedly unfolded over the past weeks, 25-year-old Jermaine Cooper was arrested in south central Salina over the weekend. It began on August 8, when a resident residing in the 900 block of Merrily witnessed Cooper entering their vehicle. The reported burglary resulted in the theft of $13 in change from the vehicle. The victim was able to identify Cooper, knowing who he was. Although immediate apprehension did not occur, SPD was on the lookout for him.
On August 18 at 5:34 pm, an officer spotted whom they believed to be Jermaine Cooper, walking in the 900 block of W Republic. Knowing that Cooper was sought in connection with the vehicle burglary on August 8, the officer attempted an arrest. However, Cooper allegedly fled on foot. The officer caught up to Cooper, where a struggle ensued and the officer effectively employed a taser. During the struggle, the officer sustained minor abrasions and suffered damage to their sunglasses. While being arrested, officers allegedly discovered a pill on Cooper's person, suspected to be fentanyl.
Meanwhile, a neighbor residing in the 800 block of Merril approached officers and reportedly identified Cooper as the individual who had attempted to gain access to their vehicle on August 15. Officers confirmed this by reviewing video surveillance footage from the neighborhood.
Jermaine Cooper was arrested on the following requested charges: vehicle burglary, attempted vehicle burglary, interference with law enforcement, battery on a law enforcement officer, criminal damage to property, possession of an opiate, and possession of drug paraphernalia.