UPDATE APRIL 16, 2025: The charges against Emerson were dropped on Nov. 14, 2024. A lawsuit was filed on March 17, 2025, alleging his arrest was unjust. More information can be found here.
Previously:
Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – Aug 15, 2024 – A former A-State employee was arrested this week for theft of several items from the University.
40-year-old Just Emerson was seen on camera 12 times over the course of 4 days arriving at the loading dock of the Wingate 3D Arts building and loading items into two separate vehicles.
Listed property includes ADA pottery wheel adapters, tables, molds, scrap metal, cups, wood, a kiln shelf, drills, jars, chairs, pottery supplies, clay, anvils, screens, wire, and more.
Officers were informed that the theft was occurring and also discovered that the suspect had previously taken three pottery wheels for personal use at a business that the suspect and his female accomplice operate.
The items stolen were purchased using funds from the State of Arkansas as well as funds donated to the art department of Arkansas State University. Approximately $2,984 worth of items was stolen.
When confronted, Emerson refused to return the supplies, and resigned his position a A-State instead.
He was arrested and went before Judge Fowler on Wednesday. he was charged with Theft of $5000 or less from a building – a Class D Felony.
His bond was set at $3,500 c/s.
