Two sisters from Paragould are facing felony charges after an incident early Sunday morning in which one of them allegedly forced her way into an ex-boyfriend’s home, struck him, and drove her car into the house. Authorities say the second sister attempted to conceal her sibling’s location from responding officers.
District Judge Curtis Hitt found probable cause to arrest both women and set bonds at $125,000 for Joanna Eskridge and $50,000 for her sister, Jamie Eskridge. Joanna’s release, if permitted, is contingent on wearing an ankle monitor, refraining from possessing weapons, and avoiding contact with the alleged victim or others connected to the case.
According to court records, Joanna Eskridge faces felony charges of residential burglary, first-degree criminal mischief, and aggravated assault on a household or family member. She also faces two misdemeanor charges: third-degree domestic battery and violating a no-contact order. Jamie Eskridge has been charged with hindering apprehension, a felony.
Paragould police responded to a home on Bradburn Street shortly before 6 a.m. on November 8. A man at the residence reported that Joanna forced her way through the front door and used a knife to gain entry into his locked bedroom. Police noted physical damage to both the front door frame and a hinge.
The man told investigators Joanna struck him in the back of the head and attempted to choke him. A witness reportedly recorded video supporting his account, including audio of the man saying, “Stop choking me.” Officers also documented cuts on the man’s forearms.
As Joanna left the residence, she allegedly clipped a mailbox and struck a trash can before returning moments later to drive her car into the side of the house. The crash reportedly caused damage to siding, an awning, and an outdoor air-conditioning unit, all of which police documented.
The man provided officers with an address on Scott Street, where they located Joanna’s car. Police observed visible front-end damage on the vehicle. Jamie Eskridge, who was at the location, initially told officers Joanna was not present. However, about 20 minutes later, Joanna exited the apartment.
Investigators allege Jamie admitted to knowingly providing false information to protect her sister from arrest. Joanna reportedly acknowledged to police that she struck the air-conditioning unit with her car and was aware that contacting the man violated a no-contact order stemming from a prior domestic battery report in September.
Court proceedings for both sisters are pending. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.