PARAGOULD, Ark. — A man is facing a felony charge after being accused of pointing a handgun during a confrontation outside a Dollar General on West Main Street in Paragould. The incident occurred on Nov. 2, according to an arrest affidavit.
Lafayette Ellis was arrested and charged with aggravated robbery, a Class Y felony, following the altercation. Greene County District Judge Curtis Hitt set bond at $250,000 during a hearing on Thursday. If released, Ellis will be required to wear an ankle monitor, avoid possessing firearms, and have no contact with the alleged victim, witnesses, or other individuals tied to the case.
The alleged victim told police he had previously arranged to meet Ellis and that the encounter took place in his vehicle outside the store. He said that after Ellis entered the car, he began putting cash, which had been in plain sight, into his pocket. According to the affidavit, Ellis allegedly pointed a handgun at the man’s head and demanded the money. A struggle ensued, and the man claimed he gained control of the firearm and managed to escape.
Detective Cpl. Tron Beesley stated in the affidavit that the man provided video evidence supporting his version of events. During questioning, Ellis reportedly admitted to being present during the incident, possessing a handgun, and being involved in an altercation.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.