Jonesboro Resident Accused of Sexual Assault Involving Child Under 16

JONESBORO, Ark. — A Jonesboro resident is accused of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 16 during an incident at a residence.

Eldon Ray Brownderville, 53, faces a charge of second-degree sexual assault.

Jonesboro police responded July 19 to a reported sexual assault. The child told officers that Brownderville had touched the child’s inner thighs beneath clothing and near the genital area, according to the probable cause affidavit.

The child provided officers with a video recorded during the alleged incident. Police said the recording appeared to show Brownderville touching the child’s inner thighs beneath clothing.

During a forensic interview, the child said the contact began with Brownderville rubbing the child’s feet with lotion before moving his hands farther up the legs. The child said Brownderville ignored requests to remain below the knees and allegedly said not to tell a parent.

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The child said it was possible to get away and secure the room until officers arrived.

Brownderville was arrested July 21.

Bond Hearing

Brownderville appeared before Judge David Boling for a bond hearing Wednesday, July 22. Defense attorney Martin Lilly argued that the video showed only Brownderville placing his hand on the child’s thigh, which Lilly said was not sexual.

Lilly said rubbing someone’s thigh was not a crime. He also said the child had made similar allegations in other cases as he requested a $5,000 cash-or-surety bond.

“We’ve got to get away from bonds being used to punish people before they’re found guilty,” Lilly said.

Deputy Prosecutor Ray Nickle requested a $75,000 cash-or-surety bond.

Boling followed the prosecution’s request. Bond was set at $75,000 cash or surety, and a no-contact order was issued.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in court.

NEA Report is withholding sensitive details, including the full probable cause affidavit, to protect the child.

NEA Report is withholding sensitive details, including the full probable cause affidavit

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