Man arrested in Fulton County rape case

FULTON COUNTY, Ark. – A Poinsett County man is facing a rape charge in Fulton County after Fulton County authorities say he sexually assaulted a child.

According to court records on file with Arkansas Court Connect, Houston L. Hamilton, 61, of Trumann was arrested by Fulton County authorities after an investigation.

The victim told a family member about the abuse, according to a probable cause affidavit.

The family member then told their parents, who called police.

The victim was interviewed by the Arkansas State Police Crimes Against Children Division Nov. 17. The victim also told authorities that the rapes happened in Trumann and at the Reynolds Island area in Gepp, Arkansas, near Elizabeth, Arkansas.

A $250,000 cash only bond was set for Hamilton in the case.

A $250,000 cash-only bond was also set for Hamilton last year after police accused him of repeatedly raping a child.

On the order, the judge wrote “dangerous” beside the bond amount.

According to the court documents, Hamilton is accused of orally, vaginally, and anally raping a child repeatedly “for a long time.”

The victim told investigators Hamilton threatened her by saying if she told anyone, the Department of Human Services would take her away from her family.

“The victim stated that she has been having suicidal thoughts since this began occurring,” the affidavit stated.

In addition to the sexual assaults, the victim said Hamilton gave her Xanax, hydrocodone, and marijuana “until she could no longer walk.” Then, she said he would attempt to have sexual intercourse with her.

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, officers took Hamilton into custody for questioning. When asked if he knew why he was there, Hamilton said he “had no idea.” He then refused to answer any further questions. Upon learning what charges he faced, Hamilton asked to speak with an attorney.

During a search of his home, detectives reported finding 12 ounces of marijuana, as well as a Tupperware container with a large quantity appearing to be packaged for sale. Officers also found a firearm in Hamilton’s home, leading to the drug and weapons charges.

Hamilton is scheduled to appear in court Feb. 5 and Feb. 16-19 in the Poinsett County case.