A bench warrant has been issued in Searcy County Circuit Court for the arrest of Searcy County Judge Jimmy Dale "Jim" Harness in connection with an incident that occurred earlier in the month at the residence of his estranged wife, Josie Harness.

  According to documents related to the case, on June 5, at approximately 11:00 p.m., the Searcy County Sheriff's Office dispatch received a 911 call from Marshall resident, Josie Harness, who stated her estranged husband, Jimmy Dale "Jim" Harness, had forced his way into her residence on Hwy. 27S near Marshall without permission. Officers from the Searcy County Sheriff's Department and the Marshall Police Department responded and after arriving on scene, Jim Harness, age 52, of Marshall, Arkansas was detained.

  According to the Ms. Harness, Jim Harness did not reside at the residence. During the initial investigation, law enforcement officers learned that the front door of the residence was kicked and/or forced in and was inoperable as well as a window. She stated once Mr. Harness entered the house, he began to harass her and her guest. Mr. Harness also attempted to stop Mrs. Harness for calling for help by taking her cell phone.

  Harness was arrested and transported to the Searcy County Detention Center where he was processed for the charge of breaking and entering.

  On June 29, 14th Judicial Prosecutor Carol Crews and Deputy Prosecutor Benjamin Fruehauf issued a warrant for Harness' arrest on charges of breaking and entering, Class D felony; criminal mischief 1 - Damage less than $1,000, Class A misdemeanor; and first degree interference with emergency communication, Class A misdemeanor.

  The Circuit County Searcy Court also issued a no contact order against Jim Harness which states that Mr. Harness is ordered not to contact Ms. Harness and to stay at least 50 yards away from her; to stay away from Ms. Harness' residence in Marshall; and to stay away from Ms. Harness' workplace. The order also states that Mr. Harness is not to be in possession of any weapon, firearms or ammunition for the duration of the order.

  Little Rock attorney David Jason Barrett been assigned to serve as the special prosecutor in this case.