Suspect Accused of Forgery After Over $200,000 Stolen from Bank

JONESBORO, Ark. — Authorities believe they’ve broken up a criminal operation in which suspects fraudulently opened bank accounts and transferred money, resulting in losses of over $200,000.

On Jan. 24, the Jonesboro Police Department responded to reports of significant fraudulent activity at Arvest Bank in Jonesboro, the probable cause affidavit said.. The bank reported that between Nov. 14, 2024 and Feb. 7, 2025, at least 65 accounts were fraudulently opened, resulting in losses exceeding $200,000.

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The investigation identified Arthur Leflore as the principal suspect, the affidavit said. Leflore was allegedly working with at least eight other individuals. The affidavit said he opened accounts in person at Arvest Bank. He then provided account information to his accomplices. They deposited fraudulent checks into his accounts. Before the bank could identify the deposits as fraudulent, the suspect and his associates would transfer the stolen money out of the accounts.

Arthur N. Leflore faces charges including Engaging in a Continuing Criminal Gang, Organization or Enterprise, a Class A felony; Theft of $25,000 or More, a Class B felony; and Second-Degree Forgery, a Class C felony.

Bail was set at $35,000 cash or surety on Monday by Judge Barbara Halsey.

The defendant’s next court appearance is set for April 24.

Police also arrested Ebonie Sharday Meux, ’37, of West Memphis. She faces 25 counts of Second-Degree Forgery as well as Theft Over $25,000 and Engaging in a Criminal Gang, Organization, or Enterprise charges. Her bail was set at $75,000 cash or surety.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.