The Office of Prosecuting Attorney David Ethredge, 14th Judicial District, announced today that no charges will be filed in the July 10 shooting that claimed the life of a Charleston man.
Fort Smith, Arkansas — Special Prosecuting Attorney David L. Ethredge has completed his review of the July 10, 2025, incident in Sebastian County in which Mr. Richard Bradley Jones was fatally injured during a confrontation with Mr. Kermit Acosta. After a diligent investigation conducted by the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, and a review of all available evidence —
including the statements of three witnesses and information from the Arkansas State Crime Lab. The facts established are as follows:
Mr. Acosta acted in lawful manner under Arkansas law. The investigation revealed that Mr. Acosta was confronted by Mr. Jones and reasonably perceived an imminent threat of serious physical injury or death. The witnesses interviewed by investigators provided consistent accounts supporting the claim that Mr. Acosta’s actions were necessary to protect himself.
Under Arkansas law (Ark. Code Ann. § 5-2-607), a person is justified in using deadly physical force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect themselves from death or serious physical injury. Based on the totality of the evidence — including witness testimony, physical evidence, and investigative findings — the State cannot disprove that Mr. Acosta’s actions were legally justified.
The decision to file criminal charges must reflect the ethical obligation to the victim, the community, and the potential defendant. Prosecutors must never rush to charge an individual without the unwavering belief that, after hearing all the facts and evidence, a jury of twelve citizens in this jurisdiction would find beyond reasonable doubt that an unlawful taking of life had occurred.
“This decision is based solely on the evidence and the law,” said Special Prosecuting
Attorney David L. Ethredge. “While any loss of life is a serious matter, the law
recognizes the right of every individual to defend themselves when faced with an
imminent threat.
Our responsibility is to ensure that justice is pursued fairly, impartially, and only when the evidence supports it beyond a reasonable doubt. We commend the diligence of the investigating officers and the cooperation of the witnesses in ensuring a thorough and fair review. The Office of the Special Prosecuting Attorney thanks the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office for its professionalism and the community for its patience during the review process.
Ethredge was appointed special prosecutor on July 29 after Sebastian County Prosecutor Daniel Shue recused himself from the case. The incident occurred at the 1500 block of Highway 96 East in Lavaca on July 10, 2025.
