Joshua Warren Campbell faces battery charges after allegedly using a blowtorch to burn a co-worker's back at Metal Man Recycling in Trumann, Arkansas. The incident stemmed from a $100 debt related to a moped, according to a police affidavit. Campbell was released on $10,000 bond following his arrest.
On March 23, Campbell and the victim were working at Metal Man Recycling when Campbell allegedly pointed a blowtorch at the victim's back, causing second- and third-degree burns. The victim fell to the ground, suffering bruising and broken ribs. The burns required surgery and skin grafts, Poinsett County Sheriff's Office detectives reported in an affidavit obtained by local station KAIT. Trumann Police Department detectives noted the victim had overheard Campbell and another co-worker discussing an attack on him beforehand. Another individual recorded Campbell admitting to the intentional burning. In the recording, Campbell linked the act to the victim owing $100 to the other co-worker's father for a moped. He expressed regret, saying he 'felt bad for it' and 'wished it was the other way around.' Campbell added, 'He don't deserve no karma like that, I know that [expletive] hurt.' Campbell, 37, was booked into Poinsett County Detention Center on April 20 and released after posting $10,000 bond. His next court date was not immediately available.