Searcy County Sheriff Kenny Cassell reported on January 31, an Everton man was arrested for Aggravated Assault and Threatening his family. Cassell said the caller told 911 that Richard Poyner, age 49, was intoxicated and had become violent towards his family. She also said Poyner had armed himself with firearms and had pointed them at a juvenile female. According to the caller, Poyner stated that he would shoot officers if they arrived at the residence.  While speaking with the caller, 911 dispatch was advised that Poyner had went outside the residence with a firearms. 

Sheriff Cassell and Searcy County Deputies were dispatched to the scene and on the way learned that Poyner's family had gone to the house next door and that Poyner was still threatening to shoot law enforcement if they showed up.  At the scene, Searcy County deputies met with Newton County officers, who had arrived to assist. After a short period of time, the victims were escorted from the residence, while not being detected by Poyner. 

On January 31, Poyner surrendered himself to Searcy County Sheriff Kenny Cassell and Chief Deputy Dewayne Pierce.  He was arrested without incident, and charged with AGGRAVATED ASSAULT, Class D felony and TERRORISTIC THREATENING, Class D felony.

Prosecuting Attorney Carol Crews and Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Benjamin Fruehauf formally charged Poyner with AGGRAVATED ASSAULT and TERRORISTIC THREATENING.  He remained in custody until posting a $5,000.00 bond on February 4, 2020.  His Circuit Court date is scheduled for later this month.

Sheriff Cassell praises the assistance of Newton County Sheriff Glenn Wheeler and his deputies during this incident.