Lieutenant recognized for heroic act while performing duties

Poinsett County, Arkansas – For his valiant actions while performing his duties, a Lieutenant in the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Office received recognition.

During the Poinsett County Quorum Court sitting on Monday, October 14, Lt. Jay-Ryan Woods was presented with the Invictus Award during a ceremony.

Woods oversaw the pursuit of a murder suspect who was wanted in a different state in September 2023. The suspect was pursued by officers from multiple agencies across the counties of Cross, Poinsett, and Crittenden.

Deputies from Poinsett County stopped the car that was being sought for homicide in Alabama.
The suspect pulled over at the roadblock and started shooting at the responding officers.

According to Kevin Molder, the sheriff for Poinsett County, Woods acted quickly.

Molder stated, “He started checking them [deputies] right away and started giving first aid to the person who shot at him.”

After the suspect was shot in the leg, Woods stopped the bleeding by applying a tourniquet.
In body-camera footage, Woods is heard stating, “It’s going to hurt, man, but it might save your life.”

The mayor of Trumann Jay-Paul Woods, who is also Woods’ father, is pleased with his son’s poise. He claimed that’s what his training was about.

Woods stated, “The suspect attempted to kill him, but he treats him like a human being by tending to his wounds, applying a tourniquet, and having a human conversation with him.”

On Monday night, the Colonel of the Arkansas State Police presented Woods with the Invictus Award. For his bravery, he received a medal and a plaque.

No cops were hurt in the encounter, and the perpetrator was taken into custody.
Woods may be grateful for his training.

Anyone working in law enforcement, I believe, knows just how important training can be, according to Woods. It has the potential to determine life or death.

After more than five years in law enforcement, Woods claimed he couldn’t accomplish his job without his network of support.

According to Woods, “You’re going to see, hear, and do things that most humans weren’t meant to hear, see, or do.” “So having my wife, my mom, my dad, and my brother to talk to really helps,” the speaker said, referring to their family.

In this state, the Invictus Award is being given out for the first time.