A rural Arkansas family is at the center of a disturbing criminal investigation involving allegations of sexual assault, violence, and ongoing neighborhood concerns, according to court records and local reporting.
Multiple Family Members Charged in Alleged Assault Case
Authorities say three members of the Manson family — Steven L. Manson, 56; Steven M. Manson, 35; and Dezerae S. Manson, 19 — are facing charges linked to the alleged violent sexual assault of a woman who visited their home on March 7.
- Steven M. Manson remains in custody at the Marion County Detention Center
- Steven L. Manson and Dezerae Manson have been released on bonds of $50,000 and $25,000, respectively
All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Serious Charges and Prior Allegations
Court records indicate that Steven M. Manson faces multiple felony charges, including:
- Rape, incest, and sexual assault
- Kidnapping
- Firearm possession by a prohibited person
- Terroristic threatening
Prosecutors are seeking to consolidate several cases against him. His bond was initially set at $500,000 but has since been revoked pending further proceedings.
In addition, court filings indicate he has a prior conviction related to the sexual assault of a minor, with records sealed. He is also accused of failing to register as a Level 2 sex offender.
Allegations Detail Violent Incident
According to an affidavit, the victim told investigators she was assaulted by all three family members after arriving at the property with her boyfriend, who had been hired for work.
The report states she managed to escape and seek help at a nearby home, suffering injuries at the time.
Neighbors Describe Ongoing Concerns
Residents living near the property on Lee Mountain have reported a range of troubling issues, including:
- Alleged threats and intimidation
- Reports of gunfire impacting nearby homes
- Claims of stolen property and missing pets
- Concerns about unsafe and unsanitary living conditions
Some neighbors reportedly carry firearms for protection due to safety concerns.
Photos of the property described in local reporting show large numbers of animals and debris scattered across the land, further raising concerns among nearby residents.
Law Enforcement Response
Marion County Sheriff Gregg Alexander confirmed that his office has received multiple complaints related to the family but declined to provide specific details, citing ongoing investigations.
He acknowledged growing frustration within the community, stating that residents in the area have voiced concerns about the situation.
Next Court Date Scheduled
The next court appearance for the defendants is scheduled for June 23, where a status update will be provided ahead of trial proceedings.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities continue to investigate the case as additional details emerge. The situation has drawn heightened attention due to the severity of the allegations and the broader concerns raised by neighbors in the rural community.