By Scotts Bluff County Sheriff, Mark Overman
On Thursday, August 1, 2024 at around 10:36 p.m., Scotts Bluff County Deputies working security at the Scotts Bluff County Fair recognized Reginald Smith, age 30, of Torrington WY, entering the beer garden area. Deputies had investigated an assault case that also involved threats with a firearm that occurred in May. Smith was identified as a suspect, and a warrant was issued for him on July 26, 2024.
Deputies contacted Smith and asked for identification to confirm his identity. Upon confirmation, they told Smith he was under arrest. He immediately broke away and began running. Two unarmed Fair security guards assisted in slowing his flight, and a Deputy used a taser, which caused him to fall and he was taken into custody. Deputies located a loaded 9mm handgun in his waistband, and several packages of suspected cocaine on his person. After being medically cleared for minor injuries, Smith was lodged at the Scotts Bluff County Detention Center on $250,000 bond.
Pending charges/warrant:
Assault causing bodily injury – Misdemeanor
Terroristic Threats – Felony
Possession of a Firearm during commission of a Felony – Felony
Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person – Felony
Additional charges as a result of the arrest
Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person – Felony
Possession of a Controlled Substance – Felony
The Mitchell Fire Department, Mitchell Police Department, and Regional West Ambulance service assisted.