On the date of September 9, 2023, at approximately 2am Jason Smith (49) of Monticello was arrested by the University of Arkansas at Monticello Police Department. His charges at this time were for Refusal to Stop, Obstruction of Governmental Operations and Refusal to Submit to Arrest.

However, Smith has since been charged with a class C Felony after he set fire to county property while in custody. The fire was quickly contained and everyone was evacuated safely without injury. Smith is currently still in custody for the offense of Impairing the Operation of a Vital Public Facility and awaiting a First Judicial Appearance.

I would like to thank members of the Monticello Police Department and Fire Department for their assistance during this incident.