Sheriff Kenny Cassell states that on March 11th, 2025, Deputy Caleb Horn, with the Searcy County Sheriff's Office was on routine patrol in the Saint Joe, Arkansas area, when he observed a blue Dodge pickup with an equipment violation. 

While behind the vehicle, the deputy observed a vehicle drive onto the fog line of the highway and began turning off the highway however; there was no legitimate place for the vehicle to turn into.  Deputy Horn then initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle in the area of Ozark Timber.

As the deputy was approaching the driver, Thurman Hogue, 40, of Searcy County, Hogue put his head out of the window and cursed, as he inquired as to why he was contacted.  The deputy requested the drivers license, registration and proof of insurance, at which time insurance proof was not presented.  A passenger, Rebecca Hardy, 37, of Clinton, Arkansas was also present in the vehicle.

While speaking with the driver, the deputy could smell the odor of intoxicant coming from inside the vehicle.  When asked if anyone had been drinking, Hogue stated "no."  While confirming information on the passenger, Rebecca Hardy, it was discovered that she was a wanted person from Van Buren County, Arkansas and on active parole.

During the course of the roadside encounter, the deputy located substances consistent with Marijuana inside the vehicle.  A NIK Field test kit was utilized on the green leafy substance, which came back with a positive result for Marijuana. 

Both Hogue and Hardy were arrested and transported to the Searcy County Detention Center.