Saline County man gets 50 years after high-speed chase, gun charges

Video: Mother of man killed amid police chase hopes Arkansas State Police crackdown will save lives

BENTON, Ark. – A Saline County man will spend decades in the Arkansas Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to multiple criminal charges.

According to Arkansas State Police officials, 50-year-old Shannon Barnett of Alexander pleaded guilty on Monday. His pleas are guilty of failure to appear and firearm possession by a prohibited person, leading to an extension of the prison term he is currently held under.

Barnett has a long criminal history of theft, drug offenses, and gun charges, officials said, adding that the man was placed on probation for drug possession, forgery and firearm possession by a prohibited person in June of 2020.

While on probation, officials continued, Barnett fled from Saline County deputies in March 2023 and crashed into a house, then ran on foot. Officials added that in February 2024, Barnett fled from deputies again, nearly hitting other cars and running a red light.

Officials said an ASP trooper had to use Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) in order to arrest Barnett for the 2024 incident. This led to him receiving a 30-year prison sentence in May 2024, and he is currently being held in the DOC Cummins Unit.

Officials said that after pleading guilty on Monday to the two additional charges, Barnett received a further 20 years for a total sentence of 50 years.

"This recent conviction follows closely on the heels of a commitment from state prosecutors to rigorously pursue those who attempt to evade law enforcement," ASP Col. Mike Hagar said. "I commend the Saline County Prosecuting Attorney's Office and the Saline County courts for ensuring that Barnett is held responsible for his dangerous and irresponsible conduct."

from KARK https://ift.tt/Qcg3EmG