According to Sheriff Kenny Cassell, on May 14th, 2025, Deputy Devin Goodrich with the Searcy County Sheriff Office was on routine patrol when he observed a male subject on a green four-wheeler traveling west on State Highway 374 West. Deputy Goodrich activated his emergency lights, at which time the operator of the four-wheeler, later identified as Benjamin Cornelius, 47 of St. Joe, looked back at his patrol unit and immediately accelerated and turned off the highway cutting through a residential yard. 

As Goodrich pursued Cornelius, it was noted that a female not associated with the case, was standing nearby in the yard, as Cornelius recklessly sped past her.  During the pursuit, the deputy observed Cornelius "toss" something unknown near the residence.  Shortly thereafter, the ATV operated by Cornelius came to a sudden stop, when the ATVs front tires struck a hill in another yard.

Benjamin Cornelius was immediately taken into custody and transported to the Searcy County Detention Center, where he was processed.  During the investigation, an undisclosed amount of what is believed to be Methamphetamine was located.  It was also discovered that Cornelius is currently on parole for prior felony convictions in the State of Arkansas.

Cornelius is currently in custody awaiting a probable cause hearing.  Arkansas State Parole has also placed a hold on Cornelius, for violating the conditions of his parole.

Cornelius is currently facing charges of FELONY FLEEING, POSSESSION OF CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE (METH or COCAINE), POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA, TAMPERING WITH PHYSICAL EVIDENCE, and being a HABITUAL OFFENDER.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.