Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Feb. 13, 2025 – A Dyess man accused of attacking and choking a woman in Jonesboro was given a $150,000 bond.
On Feb. 10, officers with the Jonesboro Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance that had already occurred. They made contact with the victim, who told officers that her ex-boyfriend 37-year-old James Arnold had attacked her in the early morning of Feb. 9.
Arnold and the victim were lying in bed when he reportedly became upset and produced a handgun. Arnold began hitting the victim, the affidavit said, and at one point they ended up on the floor with Arnold choking the victim.
The victim’s roommates heard the noise and one of the roommates pushed Arnold off the victim. Arnold reportedly then pointed the gun at the roommates. The victim told Arnold she would leave the residence with him to calm the situation.
They drove away with Arnold in the passenger seat. As they drove, Arnold pointed the gun toward the victim’s head multiple times and told her she was “driving to her death,” according to the affidavit.
Arnold also reportedly struck the victim in the head and face, causing a black eye and swelling.
The victim stopped at a gas station in Jonesboro and told Arnold she had to use the restroom. As she left the vehicle, Arnold reportedly climbed into the driver’s seat and drove off. The vehicle was later found abandoned in Mississippi County.
The victim’s father later gained possession of the vehicle, during which a handgun not belonging to the victim was found.
A bench warrant was issued for Arnold and he was arrested on Feb. 11 at 7:48 p.m., according to online jail records.
Arnold was charged with one count of aggravated assault on a family or household member, two counts of aggravated assault, one count of 3rd degree domestic battering, and one count of unauthorized use of a vehicle.
He was given a $150,000 cash or surety bond. He is to have no contact with the victim and not use firearms. His next court date is March 20.
