Facebook threats targeting judicial official leads to arrest of Star City man

Star City, Arkansas – A 43-year-old man from Star City was apprehended by authorities after allegedly making Facebook threats against a judicial official.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office reported that Gordon Pickens is accused of posting a worrisome message on Facebook, containing a threat aimed at 11th Judicial District West-Second Division Circuit Judge Robert Wyatt.

Specifically, Pickens is believed to have violated Arkansas Code Annotated A.C.A. 5-53-202(a)(1), which addresses the act of threatening a judicial official.

The details of the specific threats made by Pickens have not been disclosed by the sheriff’s office.

In accordance with Senate Bill 89, also known as Act 576 of 2007, the sheriff’s office is obligated by law to complete Arkansas Court Security Incident Reports concerning such matters. These reports are then submitted to the Administrative Office of the Courts, as mandated by Act 576 of 2007.

This process ensures that incidents involving threats against judicial officials are appropriately documented and handled in accordance with the law.

Upon learning of the threats made by Pickens, authorities initiated a thorough investigation led by criminal investigators from the Tri-County Drug Task Force.

Working in conjunction with the Benton Police Department, Captain Yohance Brunson of the Tri-County Drug Task Force, along with Captain John Bean and Sergeant Terry Wingard of the Criminal Investigation Division, successfully tracked Pickens to an apartment in Benton.

A surveillance team, supported by Lieutenant Brian Bigelow, Sergeant Mason Curtis, and Detective Dustin from the Benton Police Department, observed Pickens leaving the apartment complex in a silver Jeep displaying counterfeit license plates.

Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on the Jeep near East and Sevier Street in Benton, leading to Pickens’ arrest.

Currently, Pickens is being held at the W.C. “Dub” adult detention center in Jefferson County, facing charges of threatening a judicial official, classified as a Class B Felony. If convicted, he could face imprisonment ranging from 5 to 20 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections, along with a fine of up to $15,000.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes its serious stance against any threats directed at judicial officers.

Sheriff Lafayette Woods, Jr. emphasizes his office’s unwavering commitment to promptly address and investigate all such threats. Every available resource will be utilized to ensure the safety and security of judicial officials.

“Our duty is to protect and serve, and we will not tolerate any acts that compromise the safety of our judges and jurors. Threats against judicial officials will be met with swift and thorough investigations, and those responsible will be held accountable for their actions,” stated Sheriff Woods.