$1M Bond Set After 18-Year-Old Accused of Rape Involving Child With Developmental Delay

JONESBORO, Ark. — An 18-year-old defendant is being held on a $1 million bond after being arrested on a rape charge involving a child with a developmental delay, according to court records.

Seth Evan Jones, 18, was arrested March 18, 2026, at approximately 9:04 a.m. on a charge of rape, a Class Y felony.

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According to the probable cause affidavit, the Jonesboro Police Department was notified on March 6, 2026, of an investigation originating in Poinsett County involving a 10-year-old alleged victim. Investigators were told the defendant had allegedly been sexually abusing the child.

The affidavit alleges the defendant would take the child into a wooded area and engage in acts described as “teaching her how to make a baby.” The affidavit contains additional graphic details that are not being published.

At one point, the alleged victim told the defendant she was scared and wanted to stop, according to the affidavit.

Investigators also spoke with the defendant’s mother, who told authorities the person involved was not her son and claimed he had “a demon that has taken control of him.” She also expressed guilt about not being present for much of his life and said he would visit her a few times a year.

On March 18, 2026, the defendant turned himself in at the Jonesboro Police Department, where he was arrested and transported to the Craighead County Detention Center.

During a bond hearing, prosecutors requested a $1 million bond and a no-contact order with all juveniles. Defense attorney Paul Ford argued that amount was effectively no bond and said the defendant has mental health issues that could worsen without treatment.

Judge David Boling set bond at $1 million and issued a no-contact order specifically protecting the alleged victim.

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

Note: Because of the graphic descriptions contained, as well as identifying details about the victim, we are not publishing the PC affidavit.

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.