Sherman Johnson, 28, faces charges in connection with the attempted rape and aggravated assault of a female clerk at J&B Liquor, 8425 U.S. 63 in Pine Bluff, on Jan. 2, according to the Jefferson County sheriff’s office.
During a hearing Monday, Jefferson County Division 2 District Court Judge John Kearney found probable cause to hold Johnson on charges of attempted rape and aggravated assault.
Kearney set Johnson’s bond at $500,000 cash, according to the sheriff’s office. Additionally, a “no contact” order was issued by Kearney, ordering Johnson to have no further contact with the victim, whose identity is not being released pursuant to Arkansas Code Annotated § 16-90-1104 and applicable victims’ rights laws.
Johnson will remain in custody at the W.C. “Dub” Brassell jail until a bond is successfully posted or satisfied.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
On Jan. 2, deputies were dispatched to the business after receiving a report of an aggravated assault and rape.
Investigators state that immediately following the assault and just prior to deputies arriving, Johnson attempted to flee the store on foot. As he fled, he encountered Arkansas State Police Highway Patrol Trooper Trevaughn Moore, who was conducting a traffic stop nearby and heard the victim. Johnson was apprehended by Moore a short time later, according to the news release.
Sheriff’s office deputies arrived moments later, along with criminal investigators assigned to the sheriff’s office Criminal Investigation Division. Criminal investigators spoke with the victim and collected evidence, which will be processed accordingly as the investigation continues. Johnson was transported to the jail.