JONESBORO, Ark. — A woman has been charged with making violent threats during a heated dispute over access to a child, according to court records filed in Craighead County.
Rhonda Lee Ashley faces a felony charge of first-degree terroristic threatening, classified as a Class D felony, as well as a Class A misdemeanor for criminal attempt. The misdemeanor allegation stems from an accusation that Ashley tried to interfere with court-ordered custody.
The reported incident occurred on Sept. 25 at a residence on West Jefferson Avenue. Jonesboro police responded to a domestic disturbance call, and officers were informed by an adult resident that Ashley had tried to coax a child into her vehicle. The child reportedly fled from Ashley during the interaction.
The adult came outside upon hearing yelling and witnessed Ashley in a neighbor’s driveway asking to see the child. The affidavit indicates Ashley had been told she was not allowed to interact with the child under the terms of a Department of Human Services (DHS) safety plan. Despite this, Ashley allegedly argued that online court records showed she had guardianship over the child. However, authorities confirmed that a different adult held court-ordered guardianship.
When asked again to leave, Ashley allegedly said, "This isn’t over. I’m gonna kill you and kill all of you," according to the affidavit. The resident also told police that Ashley circled the area around the residence and remained nearby throughout the weekend. The affidavit further notes that officers were informed Ashley routinely carried weapons and had been banned from the residence since September 16, 2022.
Ashley appeared for her initial 8.1 hearing on Monday, Oct. 5, before Judge David Boling. During the proceedings, she denied the allegations. However, the judge set her bond at $100,000 cash or surety at the request of the prosecutor. Ashley’s next court appearance has been scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 23 in Craighead County Circuit Court.
In Arkansas, a Class D felony carries potential penalties of up to six years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. A Class A misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
These charges remain allegations, and Ashley is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.