Retired Judge Assigned to Hathaway Case After Multiple Recusals

Four circuit judges have recused themselves from the legal proceedings of State v. Robert Daniel Hathaway. Between October 13 and October 16, Judges John Putnam, Andrew Bailey, and Johnnie Copeland stepped down from the case, followed by Judge Deanna Layton, who stated the move was in the "best interest of the administration of justice".

In response to these recusals, Arkansas Supreme Court Chief Justice Karen Baker has appointed retired Circuit Judge Gary Arnold to the 14th Judicial Circuit to oversee the case.

Robert Daniel Hathaway, a former County Judge, was arrested in February. He currently faces two charges: a felony count of abuse of public trust and a misdemeanor count regarding reporting requirements for public employees. These charges are based on allegations that Hathaway failed to notify the Arkansas Legislative Audit about the misuse of county funds.

The investigation centers on former County 911 Director Daniel Bolen, who allegedly used county credit cards for personal purchases. According to court documents, Bolen attempted to hide the theft by reimbursing the funds with personal checks; however, the scheme was uncovered after one of those checks bounced. An affidavit further alleges that Bolen stole money from several different sources.

The legal fallout extends to other individuals. April Benefiel is accused of hindering prosecution and tampering with evidence, allegedly warning Bolen of the investigation and suggesting he destroy his mobile phone. Her jury trial is set for October 26, while Bolen's trial has been postponed until January 4, 2027.

Additionally, witness testimony indicates that Bolen and Benefiel were involved in an extramarital affair. As a result of this relationship, Bolen allegedly used county funds to pay Benefiel's daughter for hours she did not actually work at the Boone County 911 Center.

Share this article...