Affidavit: Suspect Nearly Cuts Off Victim’s Foot, Faces Class Y Felony

JONESBORO, Ark. — A suspect with a criminal history from several different states has added Arkansas to his list after being arrested for a Class Y felony over the weekend in Jonesboro.

The probable cause affidavit states that on August 16, 2025, officers responded in the early morning hours to a hotel on Gilmore Drive about a male being struck by a vehicle. Officers found a man lying on the ground with a severe injury to his foot, which was nearly amputated at the ankle. First responders were there when police arrived.

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During the on-scene investigation, police determined Roel Ibanez had been involved in the incident. Witnesses said that Ibanez had been removed from the victim’s vehicle. After being removed, Ibanez took the victim’s wallet and threw it into a nearby field. The victim then exited the vehicle in an attempt to retrieve his wallet.

At that point, the affidavit alleges that Ibanez re-entered the victim’s vehicle and attempted to leave in it. The victim reportedly tried to stop him, but then Ibanez used the vehicle to run over the victim, causing a serious foot injury.

Ibanez drove the vehicle approximately 100 yards before abandoning it. He exited the vehicle and fled on foot.

Ibanez was arrested for first-degree battery, a Class Y felony, and leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury, a Class D felony. Jail records also show a charge for vehicle theft.

On Monday, Aug. 18, Ibanez appeared before Judge Tommy Fowler for his bond hearing. The judge noted he’s not from here and has no local ties. The judge wrote that he believes the defendant is unlikely to return, is wanted in Indiana, and is on probation in Texas.

Taking that into account, the judge set bail at $100,000 cash-only. If the large bond is met, a GPS ankle monitor will be required.

The defendant is next due in court on Sept. 30, 2025.

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