Jonesboro, AR – JonesboroRightNow.com – Court documents stated a routine traffic stop for a broken license plate light in Jonesboro escalated into a foot chase, and the discovery of three young children left alone in an unsanitary home.

At roughly 9:13 p.m. on Feb. 17, a Jonesboro police officer pulled over a van driven by 30-year-old Latricia Marie Upshaw as she turned into a driveway on Center Street. According to the probable cause affidavit, the officer noticed physical signs of impairment, including bloodshot, watery eyes, and a strong odor of alcohol.

When the officer asked for proof of insurance, Upshaw refused and attempted to walk away into the house. Officers told her she could not leave, but she continued, leading to a brief struggle before police secured her in handcuffs.

During the encounter outside, officers heard children crying inside the home. Upshaw claimed an aunt was watching them. However, when police investigated, they discovered three children, ranging in age from nine months to five years old, left unattended. Officers noted the home was in a state of severe neglect and highly unsanitary, finding one child in a heavily soiled diaper and covered in feces.

The situation escalated when officers escorted Upshaw to a patrol unit. Still wearing handcuffs, she broke away and ran across Church Street. After a brief foot chase, officers apprehended her again and transported her to the Craighead County Detention Center. Police said she acknowledged her rights but refused to submit to a chemical blood alcohol content (BAC) test.

Upshaw appeared before Circuit Judge Charles Mooney on Feb. 20, who found probable cause to charge her with the following:

  • Endangering the welfare of a minor – 1st degree (Class D felony; three counts)
  • 3rd-degree escape/escapes from custody (Class C felony)
  • Resisting arrest – refusal to submit to arrest / active or passive refusal (Class B misdemeanor)
  • Disorderly conduct (Class C misdemeanor)
  • DWI – driving or boating while intoxicated (Unclassified)
  • Refusal to submit (Unclassified)
  • Tail lamps and reflectors (Unclassified)

In determining a bond, Mooney noted that Upshaw currently has active warrants out of the state, and he said he was concerned about the children’s safety.

Upshaw is being held on a $75,000 cash/surety bond. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 23.