Woman Accused of Death Threat During Jonesboro Dispute

JONESBORO, Ark. — A woman faces a felony allegation after police say she threatened to kill a Jonesboro resident during a confrontation over contact with a child.

Rhonda Lee Ashley is charged with first-degree terroristic threatening, a Class D felony, and criminal attempt, a Class A misdemeanor. A first-appearance form describes the misdemeanor as an allegation that she attempted to interfere with court-ordered custody.

Jonesboro police responded Sept. 25 to a residence on West Jefferson Avenue after receiving a report of a domestic disturbance, according to a probable cause affidavit filed in Craighead County Circuit Court.

An adult at the residence told officers Ashley had attempted to get the child into her vehicle, but the child fled from her. The adult said she came outside after hearing yelling and saw Ashley in a neighbor’s driveway asking to see the child.

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According to the affidavit, Ashley was told she was not permitted to see the child under a Department of Human Services safety plan and needed to leave. Ashley allegedly claimed online court records showed she had guardianship.

The affidavit states another adult had court-ordered guardianship over the child.

When Ashley was again told to leave, she allegedly said, “This isn’t over. I’m gonna kill you and kill all of you,” according to the affidavit.

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The adult told police Ashley then circled the area around the residence and had been nearby throughout the weekend. The adult also alleged Ashley was dangerous and routinely carried weapons.

Police records showed Ashley had been banned from the residence since Sept. 16, 2022, the affidavit states.

On Monday, Oct. 5, Ashley appeared before Judge David Boling for her 8.1 hearing. As the judge read the affidavit, Ashley denied the allegations. However, following the prosecutor’s request, the judge set bond at $100,000 cash or surety. Ashley’s next court appearance is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. Nov. 23 in Craighead County Circuit Court.

Judge’s notes which are factors behind the bond. According to these notes, it is the suspect’s 12th arrest and she has multiple FTAs.

A Class D felony is punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. A Class A misdemeanor carries up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

The charges are allegations. Ashley is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.