According to a press release from The Tenth Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Frank Spain announced that an Ashley County jury has convicted Aaron Dewayne Rice on multiple felony drug charges and sentenced him to a total of 112 years in the Arkansas Department of Correction.
The conviction stems from an investigation conducted by agents with the 10th Judicial District Drug Task Force and the Ashley County Sheriff’s Department following a traffic stop on October 17, 2025.
According to trial testimony, Drug Task Force Agents Ben Michel and James Slaughter were on patrol on the Highway 278 Bypass in Monticello when they observed a black Chevrolet pickup registered to Aaron Rice, whose driver’s license was known to be suspended. When agents initiated a traffic stop, the vehicle continued traveling for approximately three-quarters of a mile while weaving between the roadway and shoulder.
During that time, agents observed items being thrown from the passenger side of the vehicle. After the truck eventually stopped, agents recovered a pill bottle containing suspected marijuana and a black zippered pouch discarded along the roadside. The pouch contained approximately 6 grams of methamphetamine, a glass pipe commonly used to smoke methamphetamine, and a torch lighter.
Following the traffic stop, agents conducted a home visit at Rice’s residence in Crossett. Before entering the residence, Rice admitted there was methamphetamine hidden in a bathroom closet. Agents subsequently recovered approximately 10 grams of methamphetamine, digital scales, and two ecstasy pills.
Testing at the Arkansas State Crime Lab revealed the agents had seized over 16 grams of methamphetamine, along with the drug paraphernalia and other evidence indicating distribution activity.
The investigation resulted in charges being filed in both Drew and Ashley Counties. By agreement of the parties, the cases were tried together in Ashley County on July 14, 2026.
At trial, the jury heard testimony from Agents Michel and Slaughter and Ashley County Sheriff’s Deputy Tad Huntsman. Rice testified on his own behalf. After deliberation, the jury found Rice guilty on all charges.
During the sentencing phase, Chief Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Sandra Bradshaw and Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kelley Fortenberry presented evidence of Rice’s extensive criminal history, which included prior felony convictions between 2001 and 2023 of Aggravated Flight from an Officer, in Union County Parish case # F-0037850, Ashley County Case # 02CR-01-48, Theft by Receiving, a Class B felony, Ashley County case # 02CR-05-3, Attempted Manufacture of Methamphetamine, a class A felony, Drug Paraphernalia, a Class C felony, and Maintaining a Drug Premises, a Class D felony, Ashley County case # 02CR-05-4, Sexual Assault in the Second Degree, a Class B felony, and Terroristic Threatening in the First Degree, a Class D Felony. Ashley County case # 02CR-15-15, Felon in Possession of Firearm, a Class B felony, Possession of marijuana, a Class A misdemeanor, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, a Class C felony, Ashley County case # 02CR-19-58, Forgery in the Second Degree, a Class C felony, and Ashley County case # 02CR-22-111, Sex Offender Failing to Register, a Class C felony.
After considering the evidence and Rice’s criminal record, the jury recommended the maximum sentence allowed by law. The jury’s recommendation totaled 112 years’ imprisonment, with all felony sentences ordered to run consecutively. Circuit Judge Robert Gibson III followed the jury’s recommendation and imposed the sentence. Under Arkansas law, Rice will be required to serve approximately 28 years before becoming eligible for parole, assuming he earns the maximum allowable credits toward release.
The Tenth Judicial District Prosecutor’s Office extends its sincere appreciation to the jury for its service and careful consideration of the evidence in this case. We also commend the Ashley County Sheriff’s Office and the agents of the Tenth Judicial District Drug Task Force for their professionalism, dedication, and tireless efforts in investigating this matter and ensuring that this repeat offender was held accountable for his actions. Their commitment to public safety continues to make our communities safer.
