BERRYVILLE, AR. - The legal proceedings in the Carroll County case of State v. Thomas Blewett have taken an unexpected turn, with signs pointing toward a potential plea deal that has left the victim's family outraged.
During a court hearing on June 1, defense attorneys requested a follow-up meeting for June 4, suggesting that the case could be "disposed of" at that time. This phrasing typically indicates that the defense and prosecution are nearing a plea agreement, which would avoid a full trial.
The case has already been marked by procedural instability. Judge Scott Jackson recently recused himself from the proceedings after disclosing that his daughter is employed as a clerk at the law firm representing Blewett. Following his departure, the Arkansas Supreme Court appointed retired Judge Gary Arnold to take over the case.
The charges stem from a July 9, 2025, incident in which Alexander Drake Bernhardt was found dead on Carroll County road CR 435 with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Prosecutors allege that Blewett shot Bernhardt, dumped his body on the roadside, and attempted to destroy evidence by cleaning his car before abandoning it in a wooded area. The investigation gained momentum after Blewett's father, a Green Forest police officer, provided a tip that led authorities to the vehicle. To date, the alleged murder weapon - a tan 9mm pistol - has not been recovered.
Outside the courthouse, the Bernhardt family expressed their anger over the possibility of a plea bargain. They also accused Prosecuting Attorney Tony Rogers of canceling a scheduled meeting to prevent them from organizing a protest at the June 1 hearing.
A hearing is anticipated on today to determine if the case will be resolved through a plea agreement.
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