PARAGOULD, Ark. — Early Sunday morning, Paragould police responded to a violent incident on Bradburn Street involving a home invasion, an assault and a vehicle crash. According to court documents, Joanna Eskridge forced her way into her former boyfriend’s residence, struck him and then drove her car into the side of the house.
Charges and bond
District Judge Curtis Hitt found probable cause for both sisters and set bond at $125,000 for Joanna Eskridge and $50,000 for Jamie Eskridge. Both bonds may be posted in cash or surety. Judge Hitt ordered Joanna to wear an ankle monitor, prohibited her from possessing weapons and barred any contact with the man or others involved in the case if she is released.
Alleged actions
Police affidavit details state that Joanna entered the home by pushing through the front door and used a knife to pry open a locked bedroom door. She allegedly struck the man in the back of the head and attempted to wrap an arm around his neck. A witness video captured the victim shouting, “Stop choking me,” and officers photographed cuts on both of his forearms.
After the assault, Joanna reportedly clipped a mailbox, struck a trash can and then backed away, only to circle back and drive her vehicle into the side of the house. Police documented damage to the siding, an awning and an outdoor air‑conditioning unit.
Sister’s alleged obstruction
Officers later located Joanna’s car with visible front‑end damage at an apartment on Scott Street. Jamie Eskridge told investigators her sister was not present, but police say she later admitted to giving false information to keep Joanna hidden. The affidavit notes that Joanna acknowledged hitting the air‑conditioning unit with her car and recognized that she was violating a no‑contact order that stemmed from a domestic battery incident reported in September.
Legal counts
Joanna Eskridge faces felony counts of residential burglary (Class B), first‑degree criminal mischief (Class C) and aggravated assault on a household or family member (Class D). She also faces two Class A misdemeanors: third‑degree domestic battery and violation of a no‑contact order. Jamie Eskridge is charged with one count of hindering apprehension, a Class D felony.
Next steps
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case underscores the seriousness with which Paragould law enforcement treats domestic violence and related violent offenses. Residents are reminded that no‑contact orders are enforceable and that providing false information to police can result in felony charges.
Paragould Police Department encourages anyone with information about this incident or similar crimes to contact the department’s tip line.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.
