6 days ago
Benton County employee fired after sexual misconduct investigation
BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — An investigation of sexual misconduct in a Benton County detention center has led to the arrest of a jail employee, according to a news release.
Matthew Lockard, 42, is facing a charge of sexual assault in the fourth degree.
'Sheriff Holloway is deeply troubled by the actions of this individual and emphasizes that such behavior will not be tolerated,' the press release states. 'He remains proud of the many dedicated men and women of the Benton County Sheriff's Office who continue to serve the citizens of Benton County with integrity and professionalism.'
Holloway was notified of alleged inappropriate behavior between Lockard and an inmate on June 17. Sheriff Holloway immediately ordered both an internal and criminal investigation into the matter, the release states.
A probable cause affidavit filed on June 20 said a BCSO detective was asked to investigate possible charges associated with a professional standards investigation.
The affidfavit listed three incidents where Lockard allegedly touched the inmate inappropriately. Notes were reportedly passed from Lockard to the inmate. The inmate told the detective that they did not give Lockard any notes.
Lockard was interviewed and denied the allegations against him. When authorities mentioned the notes, he said they were not from him.
After seeing samples of his handwriting, he said it looked 'identical'. He then admitted to passing the notes.
Lockard also admitted to kissing the inmate for around three seconds.
Lockard was terminated on June 19. He had been employed since Nov. 16, 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
