Two Arkansas Officers Arrested in Firearm Theft Investigation

Two law enforcement officials in Newton County have been arrested following an investigation into the alleged theft of firearms. The arrests were the result of an independent probe conducted by the Arkansas State Police (ASP).

Mikel Blocker, a former chief deputy who was serving as a patrolman for the Jasper Police Department, was taken into custody on September 11. Shortly thereafter, Aaron Carter, an investigator with the Newton County Sheriff's Office, was also arrested during a follow-up investigation.

According to Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler, the process began when he became aware of allegations regarding Blocker's potential involvement in criminal activity. To ensure a fair and unbiased process, Sheriff Wheeler contacted the prosecuting attorney to request an outside investigation, which was subsequently handled by the ASP.

Sheriff Wheeler clarified that neither the Jasper Police Department nor the Newton County Sheriff's Office directed the investigation; however, both agencies cooperated fully and provided the necessary information to state agents. During the course of the investigation, multiple firearms were recovered.

Following the arrests, both men were terminated from their respective positions in law enforcement. While the sheriff did not release specific details regarding the number of weapons stolen or where they were found, he emphasized the necessity of accountability.

In a public statement, Sheriff Wheeler expressed his disappointment, noting that the situation was one of the most unpleasant of his career. He stressed that law enforcement officers must be held to a higher standard and reaffirmed that "no one is above the law". Wheeler concluded by thanking the Arkansas State Police for their professionalism and thoroughness throughout the investigation.

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