Jonesboro Suspect Arrested on DWI, Child Endangerment Charges After Three Children Found Alone

JONESBORO, Ark. — A Jonesboro suspect was arrested after police discovered three young children left unattended inside a residence while investigating a suspected impaired driver, according to a police affidavit.

Officers with the Jonesboro Police Department reported that on Feb. 17, 2026, at approximately 9:13 p.m., an officer observed a gold van traveling northbound on Church Street with defective license plate illumination. A traffic stop was initiated after the vehicle pulled into a driveway on Center Street.

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The driver was identified as Latrica Marie Upshaw, 30. According to the affidavit, the officer observed physical signs of impairment, including bloodshot, watery eyes and a strong odor of an intoxicant. Upshaw reportedly refused to comply with commands and attempted to leave the scene by walking toward the residence.

Police said Upshaw began to passively resist after verbal commands that she was not free to leave. Officers then gained control of the suspect and placed her in handcuffs following a brief physical struggle.

During the encounter, officers heard children crying inside the residence. Upshaw reportedly claimed an aunt was supervising the children, but police said a juvenile opened the door during their investigation. Officers then discovered three children — ranging in age from 9 months to 5 years old — who had allegedly been left entirely unattended.

A safety sweep of the residence revealed what officers described as severe neglect. Police said the home was unsanitary and that one child was found wearing a heavily soiled diaper and covered in feces. No adult supervisors were present in the home.

While officers continued to investigate, Upshaw reportedly fled on foot while still in handcuffs. Police said she ran across Church Street and continued south for approximately one block before officers apprehended her and took her into custody.

Upshaw was transported to the Craighead County Detention Center. Police said she acknowledged her rights but refused to submit to a chemical BAC test.

Upshaw was arrested for three counts of first-degree endangering the welfare of a minor, a Class D felony; third-degree escape from custody, a Class C felony; resisting arrest; disorderly conduct; driving while intoxicated; and other traffic infractions.

Bail was set at $75,000 cash or surety, and Upshaw is next scheduled to appear in court on April 23.

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