PARAGOULD, Ark. — An 18-year-old Paragould man, Matthew Whitley, is currently being held on a $25,000 cash-only bond following his arrest on multiple charges related to sexual misconduct involving a child.
Greene County District Judge Daniel Stidham determined there was probable cause to charge Whitley with second-degree sexual assault, sexual indecency with a child, and sexually grooming a child. These charges stem from a report made to the Paragould Police Department alleging that Whitley was involved in an ongoing inappropriate relationship with a juvenile.
According to the affidavit, after the report was filed, detectives conducted an interview with Whitley. During the interview, which occurred after Whitley waived his Miranda rights, he reportedly made several incriminating statements. Detective Lieutenant Robert Sexton confirmed this during a press briefing.
In addition to the cash bond, Judge Stidham has issued a no-contact order prohibiting Whitley from communicating with the victim. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence related to the case.
