MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Poinsett County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) reports that the suspect who fired shots at Judge Ron Hunter’s home has been arrested on multiple charges.
PCSO, Arkansas State Police and FBI carried out a search in the Greenfield area on Daisy Road on Aug. 24, 2024, around 3 p.m.
This search is related to the shooting incident involving Arkansas Judge Ron Hunter.
PCSO responded to Judge Hunter's call just after 8:30 p.m. on Friday, August 23, reporting an unidentified man threatening him at his house. Deputies showed up but could not locate the suspect.
Judge Hunter’s wife called 911 about an hour later to report that someone had fired shots at their home.
According to PCSO a deputy arrived shortly after the call, and while speaking with Judge Hunter, the suspect began shooting at them.
The deputy informed dispatch that shots had been fired. After more deputies arrived at the scene the shooter redirected fire toward the responding officers.
Fortunately, no one was injured, said PCSO officials.
The PCSO later confirmed that one of Judge Hunter's mules was shot during the incident.
PCSO Craighead County Sheriff’s Office, Harrisburg Police Department, Jonesboro Police Department, and Arkansas State Police teamed up to search for the suspect, using all available resources, including three drones.
Counterfeit one hundred dollar bills were found during the search warrant, executed on Saturday, the sheriff's office said.
Following the search, 35-year-old Christopher Ford from Harrisburg was arrested on Saturday and faces multiple charges, including:
1. Two counts of aggravated assault
2. Criminal attempt to commit capital murder
3. Terroristic act
4. Manufacture of a Schedule VI controlled substance (greater than 14 grams but less than 4 ounces)
5. Possession of firearm by certain persons
6. First degree terroristic threatening
7. First degree forgery
8. Animal cruelty
On Aug. 26, Ford went before a judge, who found probable cause and set a $5 million cash or surety bond, officials said.
According to PCSO officials, the investigation remains ongoing, and more updates will be shared as they become available.