A man who eluded Starkville and Oktibbeha authorities during a two-hour manhunt Friday now faces a second attempted kidnapping charge.
John B. Arnold, 45, was first arrested for attempted kidnapping Feb. 16 after he allegedly tried to check out a Sudduth Elementary School student without the child’s parents’ permission. Arnold posted $100,000 bond and was arrested again Tuesday for violating the conditions of the bond by trying to contact the child’s family. His bond was reinstated Wednesday on several conditions, one of which was that he wear an ankle bracelet.
Authorities said Friday Arnold removed the bracelet, prompting the manhunt. A deputy found him near Greenfield Street, where Sudduth is located, and arrested him.
A SPD press release said Arnold’s second kidnapping charge stemmed from the Friday manhunt but did not release more details.
Arnold’s bond for the Feb. 16 charged was revoked Monday, and his bond for the Friday charge set at $10 million. He has also been charged with two counts of contempt of court, with bond for each charge set at $1,000.
According to affidavits obtained from Starkville Municipal Court, and information revealed during a Monday evening court hearing, Arnold removed his ankle monitor in the vicinity of 510 Carver Dr. He also attempted to locate a child at Henderson Ward Stewart Elementary School, against the terms of his bond. These actions led to the two contempt of court charges.
Arnold’s second attempted kidnapping charge, according to affidavits, stems from his attempt to get the child from Henderson Ward Stewart on Friday, after removing his ankle monitor, without the permission of the child’s parents.
Justice Court Judge Marty Haug warned Arnold last week that if he violated the terms of his bond, he would be held in jail until his case is resolved. On Monday, he confirmed he intends to make that the case.
“You will be going to jail pending the resolution of this case,” Haug said. “The jail will monitor your actions.”
Arnold’s next court date is scheduled for 2 p.m. on March 21.
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