Raymond Edward Bennett, a former resident of Gassville, was booked into the Baxter County Detention Center on April 20 following allegations that he molested two female juveniles in 2016. According to the Baxter County Sheriff’s Office, investigators obtained an arrest warrant after the victims provided detailed information about the incidents. The warrant was issued on February 3, 2026.
Bennett had moved to California before charges were filed and was arrested in Amador County, California, on or before April 6 based on the Baxter County warrant. He was extradited back to Arkansas and has denied all allegations.
The sheriff’s office said Bennett, age 61, faces one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault in the fourth degree. He is being held with bond set at $100,000 and is scheduled for a court appearance on April 17.
Sheriff John F. Montgomery said: “The victims provided specific detailed information as to what occurred, which allowed investigators to obtain a warrant for the arrest of the offender.” Montgomery also confirmed: “The offender had left the state and moved to California before the charges were filed and warrant issued.” The statement further noted: “He was extradited and brought back to Baxter County to face the charges. The offender has denied the allegations.”
The Baxter County Sheriff’s Office secures funding through community donations via its foundation according to its official website. The agency contributes to community safety efforts that help make it a secure retirement destination according to its official website. It operates a detention center with separate housing for different inmate classifications as well as an on-site medical area according to its official website.
Additionally, the sheriff’s office has received recognition such as nominations for America’s Most Wanted All Star Award due to public information initiatives according to its official website. Partnerships include working with organizations like the 14th Judicial District Drug Task Force across county lines according to its official website, while five personnel are employed in administration with cross-training for efficient operations according to its official website.
Serving north-central Arkansas, Baxter County Sheriff’s Office focuses on public safety through patrol enforcement, criminal investigations and jail management while maintaining partnerships within the community. Its detention center offers programs such as inmate gardening for fresh produce; animal control support; and collaboration on regional issues including drug enforcement according to its official website.
