An Arkansas police officer, Joseph Harris, was terminated after video evidence surfaced showing him physically assaulting a handcuffed inmate, Billy Lee Coram, in the back of a patrol car.

Coram, who was in custody for allegedly ingesting fentanyl, was being transported back to the Craighead County jail after escaping from a hospital when the incident occurred.

The nearly 12-minute video shows Harris repeatedly punching Coram in the head and using a baton against him while Coram was restrained in the cruiser.

During the incident, Coram can be heard pleading for medical help, expressing fear for his life if returned to jail.

Jonesboro Police Chief Rick Elliott expressed being 'shocked and appalled' by Harris's actions and stated that such behavior is unacceptable.

The video evidence prompted an immediate investigation and swift action from the police department, leading to Harris's termination.

Elliott intends to seek the decertification of Officer Harris as a police officer in Arkansas to prevent him from serving in law enforcement again.

The police chief plans to refer the case to local prosecutors and has contacted the FBI regarding the incident to ensure accountability.

This incident comes amid heightened scrutiny on police misconduct, contributing to the ongoing national dialogue on police accountability and reform.

Elliott acknowledged the need for the police department to work on rebuilding trust within the community following this incident.

Mayor Harold Copenhaver expressed outrage at Harris's actions and fully supported Chief Elliott's decision to terminate him.

Harris had worked for the Jonesboro Police Department for five years before his termination and had a history of excessive force complaints.