Man Charged with Breaking Into Jonesboro Home, Assaulting Woman

JONESBORO, Ark. — A man is facing several charges after he allegedly broke into a woman’s home in Jonesboro, assaulted her, and later attempted to force his way back inside, according to court documents filed in Craighead County Circuit Court.

Sean Brewer Whitney has been charged with aggravated residential burglary, a Class Y felony; third-degree domestic battery, a Class A misdemeanor; first-degree criminal mischief involving property valued at $1,000 or less, a Class A misdemeanor; and third-degree stalking, a Class A misdemeanor. A Class Y felony is the most severe classification of felony in Arkansas and is punishable by 10 to 40 years or life in prison.

Police responded to the home on Sept. 28 following a report of an aggravated burglary in progress. According to a probable cause affidavit, officers found the victim with open, bleeding wounds and swollen lips. She told police Whitney had entered her home without permission and assaulted her.

Investigators determined that Whitney forced his way into the first-floor residence by breaking a window. The woman stated she had been in the shower when she noticed Whitney walking down the hallway. She said his facial expression caused her to fear for her safety.

The affidavit states that the woman asked someone to call 911, at which point Whitney became angry and struck her in the face twice. After leaving the bedroom momentarily, Whitney reportedly pushed through a bedroom door she had closed behind him, destroying it in the process, to re-enter the room.

Two days later, officers were again dispatched to the home after the woman reported Whitney banging on both the garage and front doors while attempting to force his way inside, the affidavit states.

Whitney’s bond was set at $175,000 cash or surety, according to an order dated Oct. 5, with the condition he be monitored by GPS. His next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 23 at 8:30 a.m. in Craighead County Circuit Court.

The charges against Whitney are allegations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.