Nine people were arrested following a sex offender compliance check conducted by the Jonesboro Police Department on Sept. 22.
The individuals taken into custody were identified as Jonvonte Battle, 33; Clarence Hayes, 48; Paul Jenkins, 40; Terry Johnson, 35; Phillip Jolly, 41; David Jones, 24; Kenny Milligan, 57; Tammy Vail, 51; and LC Williams, 43.
On Wednesday, Craighead County District Judge Thomas Fowler determined there was probable cause to charge all nine with failure to register as sex offenders, classified as a Class C felony in Arkansas. Authorities said that this charge is filed against individuals who fail to comply with legally required registration regulations.
In addition to the registration charge, Clarence Hayes faces two other charges: possession of drug paraphernalia, a Class B felony, and possession of less than four ounces of a Schedule VI controlled substance, a misdemeanor.
The compliance operation was designed to ensure registered sex offenders are abiding by state laws. Additional details on the arrests or the circumstances of the compliance checks were not immediately available from officials.
Under Arkansas law, sex offenders are required to update their registration information regularly and follow strict guidelines regarding their activities and residences. Failure to comply with these laws can result in significant legal consequences, including imprisonment. John Milner, a representative from a local legal agency, noted the importance of compliance initiatives in promoting community safety.
Further updates on this case will be provided as additional information becomes available.