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Arkansas Deputy Fatally Shot Serving Misdemeanor Warrant

Early evidence indicates that the suspect resisted arrest and fired on the deputy, who was found mortally wounded by officers who responded to reports of shots fired.

by Staff
January 3, 2024
Arkansas Deputy Fatally Shot Serving Misdemeanor Warrant

 

Credit:

Stone County SO


A Stone County, Arkansas, sheriff’s deputy was shot and killed Tuesday afternoon while serving a misdemeanor warrant.

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The Stone County Sheriff’s Office reports that Deputy Justin Smith was shot around 4 p.m. while serving a misdemeanor warrant for terroristic threatening.

The suspect has been identified by law enforcement as Clinton Hefton.

Officers responding to the home, located about 5 miles north of Mountain View, took Hefton, 52, into custody after a brief standoff, the Sheriff’s Office reports on Facebook . He has been charged with capital murder and is being held at the Cleburne County Detention Center with no bond.

The Criminal Investigation Division of the Arkansas State Police (ASP) is investigating the incident and the specific circumstances involving the shooting.



Early evidence indicates that Hefton resisted arrest and fired on Deputy Smith, who was found mortally wounded by officers who responded to reports of shots fired, the Sheriff's Office said.

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“At this time, we ask that everyone pray for Deputy Smith’s family and all of his law enforcement brothers and sisters. Details of Deputy Smith’s memorial arrangements will be released upon completion. The public is invited to visit a temporary patrol car tribute to Deputy Smith in the Mountain View courthouse square where flowers can be placed,” the Sheriff’s Office said. 

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