Jefferson County, Arkansas – Authorities in Jefferson County have arrested a 28-year-old man following a violent incident at a Pine Bluff liquor store that left a female clerk seriously shaken and prompted a swift law enforcement response. The arrest came after deputies were called to investigate reports of rape and aggravated assault at the business on Friday, January 2, 2026.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to J & B Liquor, located at 8425 U.S. Highway 63, after receiving an emergency call reporting the attack. When officers arrived, they found that the suspect had already attempted to flee the scene. Investigators later identified the suspect as Sherman Johnson, a 28-year-old Jefferson County resident.
Law enforcement officials said the victim’s name is being withheld in accordance with Arkansas Code Annotated A.C.A. § 16-90-1104 and state victim rights laws. These statutes strictly prohibit the public release of identifying information in sexual assault cases, a measure designed to protect victims and encourage reporting of such crimes.
Investigators stated that the incident unfolded rapidly. Immediately after the assault and just before deputies arrived at the liquor store, Johnson allegedly tried to escape on foot. During his attempt to flee, he encountered Arkansas State Police Highway Patrol Trooper Trevaughn Moore, who was conducting a traffic stop in the area. Trooper Moore reportedly heard the victim and quickly recognized that a serious situation was unfolding nearby.
Authorities said Johnson again attempted to run but was apprehended by Trooper Moore a short time later. The trooper detained the suspect until Jefferson County deputies arrived moments afterward. Criminal investigators assigned to the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division also responded to the scene to begin processing the case.
CID investigators spoke directly with the victim and collected evidence from the store. Officials noted that all evidence gathered will be processed as part of the ongoing investigation. While details of the assault have not been released, investigators confirmed that the allegations meet the criteria for both rape and aggravated assault under Arkansas law.
Following his arrest, Johnson was transported to the W.C. “Dub” Brassell Adult Detention Center. He is currently being held on probable cause related to the rape and aggravated assault charges. Jail records indicate that he remains in custody as the case continues to move forward through the early stages of the legal process.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Detectives continue to review evidence, interview witnesses, and coordinate with other agencies as needed. Officials said additional information will be released as it becomes available and only as permitted by law.
Local authorities also used the incident to remind the public of the importance of reporting crimes promptly and cooperating with law enforcement. They praised the quick actions of responding officers and the Arkansas State Police trooper, noting that the rapid response likely prevented the suspect from escaping the area.
As the case proceeds, officials reiterated their commitment to protecting the rights and privacy of the victim while ensuring a thorough and lawful investigation.
