Paragould Man Pleads Guilty to Two Counts of Rape, Sentenced to 50 Years

PARAGOULD, Ark. — Jaxon Anderson pleaded guilty today to two counts of rape, a Class Y felony, and was sentenced to a total of 50 years in the Arkansas Department of Correction. Upon release, he will be subject to a 10-year suspended imposition of sentence.

On July 1, 2025, the Arkansas Child Abuse Hotline and the Paragould Police Department received a report that a 3-year-old female had disclosed sexual abuse. The child was subsequently interviewed by an investigator with the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division. During a Mirandized interview, Anderson made incriminating statements regarding the abuse.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy Prosecutor Wesley Watts.

“This plea is a testament to the hard work of the Paragould Police Department and the reputation Greene County has earned for the way our community responds to and treats these types of cases,” Watts said. “When agencies work together and take these allegations seriously from the very beginning, it makes a difference for victims and for justice.”

Prosecutor Sonia Hagood said she remains devoted to protecting the most innocent members of the community and appreciates the efforts of all law enforcement partners involved in the case. The Second Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney’s Office remains committed to accountability and the fair administration of justice.