Monticello, Ark. – Four youths who fled the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) Vera Lloyd group home on Friday morning have been found and are now back in custody, state officials confirmed on Wednesday.
Timeline of the incident
The teens left the facility around 8 a.m. on Friday without permission. DHS launched an immediate search effort, coordinating with local law enforcement and community volunteers. By 9:15 a.m. on Wednesday, all four individuals had been located and taken back into state custody.
Legal requirements for disclosure
One of the youths, 16‑year‑old Anthony James Parnell Jr., meets the criteria under Arkansas Code Annotated 9‑28‑215, which obligates DHS to release identifying information when a youth who leaves custody without authorization was committed to the Division of Youth Services for an offense that would be a felony if committed by an adult. The law is intended to provide transparency and aid public safety efforts.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern for the safety of both the teens and the broader community while the search was underway. Several neighbors reported seeing the youths in the surrounding area, prompting a swift response from deputies and DHS staff.
Monticello officials praised the cooperation between state agencies and community members, noting that the rapid resolution demonstrates the effectiveness of local partnerships in protecting vulnerable youth.
What comes next
Following their return to custody, the teens will undergo standard intake procedures, including assessment of their needs and any required services. DHS officials indicated that the agency will review security protocols at the Vera Lloyd home to prevent future unauthorized departures.
The department also reminded the public that any information about the youths’ identities is released only when required by law, balancing transparency with the privacy rights of minors.
Broader context
Incidents of youths leaving group homes without permission are relatively rare in Arkansas, but they highlight the ongoing challenges faced by state agencies tasked with caring for at‑risk children. DHS continues to work with local law enforcement, schools, and families to ensure the safety and well‑being of all children under its care.
Authorities encourage anyone with additional information about similar incidents to contact the Arkansas DHS hotline.
Original reporting: KATV Little Rock (local) — read the source article.
