JONESBORO, Ark. — Bond was set at $1 million cash or surety for James Smith after investigators accused him of sexually assaulting a juvenile in Jonesboro, according to court records.
Smith faces a felony allegation of second-degree sexual assault. A Sept. 21 probable cause order requires GPS monitoring as a condition of release.
According to a probable cause affidavit dated Sept. 20, the reported victim told investigators that Smith approached while the juvenile was walking, grabbed the juvenile from behind and made sexual contact beneath the juvenile’s clothing.
The juvenile reported pulling away, striking Smith in the face, and running from him, the affidavit states.
Investigators documented scratches, and photographs were taken during a follow-up interview, according to the affidavit. The juvenile also gave a statement to prosecutors.
NEA Report is withholding identifying details to protect the reported victim.
In setting bond, the court cited 17 prior arrests, previous violent charges and the nature of the allegation involving a minor. The records reviewed by NEA Report include convictions for forgery, drugs, battery, and other charges.
The bond order also notes uncertainty about whether Smith is on probation or has a suspended imposition of sentence. If he is on probation and posts bond, he must report to probation within 48 hours, according to the order.
His next court appearance is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Oct. 26 at the Craighead County Courthouse in Jonesboro, according to the first-appearance paperwork.
All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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