Man tased after throwing shotgun off hotel walkway

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- Butler County deputies reported they had to used a Taser on a man early Saturday as he resisted arrest after allegedly throwing a sawed-off shotgun from the top floor of Bullwinkle's Lodge.

The gun smashed through a sunroof and into a car.

Stephen C. Benton, 43, of Broseley, Missouri, faces charges of felony resisting arrest and first-degree property damage.

After being sent to the lodge in the 300 block of Route T, police found Benton sitting in the lobby, according to court documents. As deputies approached, Benton muttered the gun belonged to the victim and Benton had "tossed the gun to him because he forgot it."

Deputies approached Benton to make an arrest on suspicion of property damage. Benton said it "didn't have to be like this" and refused to comply, officers reported.

A struggle ensued, and the arresting deputy said he warned Benton and used his Taser, which struck Benton in the forearm and abdomen.

Benton fell to the ground, was handcuffed and arrested. Paramedics at the scene removed the Taser probes from Benton. He was taken to the Butler County jail to await charges.

A witness reported he was outside smoking when he heard the crash of the shotgun into the car's sunroof. Other people said they saw Benton arrive at the lodge at midnight, and he was "high as a kite."

Pertinent address:

Poplar Bluff, Mo.