Torrington, Wyo., man arrested at Scotts Bluff County Fair

MITCHELL -- At about 10:36 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 1, 2024 , Scotts Bluff County Deputies working security at the Scotts Bluff County Fair recognized Reginald Smith, 30, of Torrington Wyo., 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 9 mm 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 and Possession of a Controlled Substance – Felony. 

The Mitchell Fire Department, Mitchell Police Department, and Regional West Ambulance service assisted.