JONESBORO, Ark. — A man is accused of sex crimes involving a juvenile victim after his recent arrest in Jonesboro.
Michael J. Smith, 53, of Jonesboro, faces charges including rape, a Class Y felony, and second-degree sexual assault, a Class B felony. He could face up to life in prison for the Y felony alone. Bail was set on June 18 by Judge Tommy Fowler at $500,000 cash or surety with a GPS ankle monitor and a no-contact order protecting the victim.
The probable cause affidavit states that on March 13, 2025, a juvenile contacted JPD to report being sexually assaulted by the child’s mother’s boyfriend, Michael Smith, who lives in the home with the alleged victim.
A forensic interview was conducted. The victim told police the suspect had been physically touching them “several times” and the incidents had escalated to a sexual violation that constitutes the definition of rape.
The affidavit also alleges other occasions of touching and of asking for sexual favors in return for buying or doing things for the victim.
Smith was arrested on June 16 by JPD. His next court appearance is scheduled for July 31.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law
Editor’s note: Certain details, including age and gender, have been masked to protect the alleged victim.
The National Sexual Assault Hotline is confidential and available 24/7. The number is 800.656.4673.
You can also chat online with crisis support at online.rainn.org.
More resources and information about RAINN can be viewed here.
The Family Crisis Center, Inc. is a local resource available to help if you’re in need.
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