Batesville, AR – Authorities in Izard County are searching for a 36-year-old Calico Rock man who fled from law enforcement officers twice in less than 24 hours. Stephen Whaples is wanted for parole violations, and the effort to locate him remains active as of 06:42 PM CDT, Monday, August 04, 2025.
According to the Izard County Sheriff’s Office, Whaples first evaded capture on Sunday afternoon, August 3, 2025, when he fled on foot from an Arkansas State Police trooper near Dolph Road. A search of the area did not result in his apprehension. At approximately 3:15 a.m. on Monday, August 4, deputies responded to a report of Whaples being spotted in the 1500 block of West Crossroads. He again fled on foot before officers could reach him. The Arkansas Department of Corrections dog team has been deployed to assist in the ongoing search.
Officials have advised the public not to approach Whaples if he is seen. Individuals with information regarding his whereabouts are requested to contact the Izard County Sheriff’s Office at 870-368-4203 or call 911. The search continues, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
