A Paragould man was arrested on multiple charges on September 27 after a police search uncovered methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and unsanitary living conditions in a home where a minor child lived.
James Dowdy faces three felony charges and one misdemeanor charge, including endangering the welfare of a minor, according to a probable cause affidavit by Investigator Blaine Cagle.
Officers Jacob Wright and Jamie Counce conducted the search at Dowdy's home that morning under a waiver associated with a suspended sentence. The affidavit states that Officer Wright had encountered Dowdy the previous day, during which a search of Dowdy’s phone allegedly revealed text messages discussing the purchase of illegal drugs.
Police said Dowdy ran into his bedroom when officers arrived at the residence. After coming back outside, Dowdy was detained. According to the affidavit, another adult resident granted officers consent to search the property.
Inside, officers observed extensive unsanitary conditions, including cat feces and urine throughout the house and pests such as roaches and spiders on walls, floors, kitchen cabinets, and a bedroom mattress. Partially smoked marijuana cigarettes were reportedly found on the floor near the child’s toys.
The Arkansas Department of Human Services responded to the scene, and a caseworker removed the child from the home under a 72-hour hold.
During the search, officers also discovered a plastic bag containing a crystalline substance and a used glass pipe between the mattress and box springs in the bedroom Dowdy had initially entered, according to the affidavit. Investigator Cagle reported the substance field-tested positive for methamphetamine and will be sent to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for confirmation.
Additionally, police seized Dowdy’s phone after observing text messages allegedly referencing methamphetamine purchases.
The affidavit states that after being advised of his rights, Dowdy admitted to using methamphetamine. He also reportedly told officers he attempted to dispose of the drug and pipe when he ran into the bedroom upon seeing them.
Dowdy was booked into the Greene County Detention Center. Judge Curtis Hitt reviewed the case and found probable cause for the arrest, setting bond at $25,000 with a surety option.
Authorities have not released additional details, and the charges against Dowdy remain allegations that have not been proven in court.