x
Breaking News
More () »

Tontitown Alderman Turns Self In On Felony Arrest Warrant

TONTITOWN (KFSM)- A Tontitown alderman has turned herself in on a felony arrest warrant Thursday (May 14). Rhonda Doudna said she turned herself in to the Washi...

TONTITOWN (KFSM)- A Tontitown alderman has turned herself in on a felony arrest warrant Thursday (May 14).

Rhonda Doudna said she turned herself in to the Washington County Detention Center just before 6 p.m. on suspicion of False Statement on Petition Verification Form, which is a Class D Felony.

Doudna said she was booked and then immediately released on her own recognizance. Her arraignment date has been scheduled for June 3, according to jail records.

According to a probable cause affidavit, on March 12, an individual contacted the Tontitown Police Department to file a complaint. He stated that on April 21, 2014, he signed a petition in reference to the repeal of a city ordinance, the affidavit states. When the individual later saw the petition, the suspect, Rhonda Doudna, had the verification form stating that she witnessed the individual sign the petition, but the individual stated that another person had obtained and witnessed his signature, according to the affidavit.

The Tontitown police chief spoke to another person who signed the same petition, and this person also stated that Doudna did not witness his signature, the affidavit states.

5NEWS spoke with Doudna on the phone just before she was booked. She said she has retained an attorney.

"The only reason this is occurring is because Joe Edgemon want to slander my name, make me quit and cost me money," Doudna said. "He's wrong. The truth is the truth and it will set me free."

Edgemon spoke with 5NEWS. He said the arrest warrant has nothing to do with politics.

"That is asking for a lawsuit. That is not about good government," Edgemon said. "I think in this case it was clear. She did not witness those signatures. She's going to have to accept she did something wrong."

Before You Leave, Check This Out