Special Agents with the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division on Monday arrested Benjamin Drake Slagley, 30, charging him with arson in connection with a fire at his residence in Swifton that was first reported on Aug. 30.
Jackson County authorities had called in the state agents after the blaze, which Slagley — then a Swifton police officer — himself reported to 911. Slagley subsequently resigned from his position amid the investigation.
According to the Arkansas State Police, agents took Slagley into custody Monday and transported him to the Jackson County Detention Center. The affidavit or arrest report has not yet been made public, and no court appearance date has been announced.
The U.S. Fire Administration defines arson as the willful and malicious burning of property, a charge that in Arkansas can carry severe penalties if convicted. State and local investigators say the inquiry is ongoing and that additional evidence is being examined before formal prosecution steps are taken.
Jackson County Sheriff’s Office officials declined further comment Tuesday, citing the pending investigation.
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