Prosecutors have formally dropped rape charges against a Jonesboro man after raising concerns about the credibility of the case, citing the actions of the alleged victim’s family.
Second Judicial Circuit Court Judge Chris Thyer signed an order of nolle prosequi on Wednesday, officially dismissing the charges against Cetrick Deshawn Crockett. The decision followed an evaluation of the evidence, according to a filing by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katherine Calaway.
“The State has determined, based on the facts and evidence currently available, credibility concerns prevent the State from reasonably proceeding to trial,” Calaway wrote in the dismissal order. She specifically pointed to actions by the victim’s mother, grandmother, and grandfather as contributing to these concerns.
Crockett was arrested by Jonesboro police in December 2025 on suspicion of rape, classified as a Class Y felony in Arkansas. According to an arrest affidavit, the alleged victim reported on October 11, 2025, that Crockett had sexually assaulted them.
During a Mirandized interview with investigators, police noted in the affidavit that Crockett became emotional and changed his account of events several times. Investigators stated that he eventually admitted to the allegations and expressed regret, reportedly telling officers he “would never do it again.”
Under Arkansas law, a nolle prosequi dismissal is made without prejudice, meaning the charges could be refiled in the future if new evidence comes to light.
The state and defense have not publicly elaborated on the specific actions by the victim’s family that led to the credibility concerns.
No further details were made immediately available.