March 7, 2025
BENTON, Ark. — A Saline County man was sentenced to 50 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections (DOC) after pleading guilty to multiple criminal offenses, including Fleeing from law enforcement.
On Monday, March 3, 2025, Shannon Barnett, 50, of Alexander, pleaded guilty to Fleeing, Failure to Appear, and Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Persons. His criminal history includes theft, drug offenses, and other firearm-related charges.
In June 2020, Barnett was placed on probation for Possession of a Controlled Substance, Forgery, Possession of a Firearm by Prohibited Persons, and Failure to Appear.
Two notable fleeing incidents occurred during his probation. On March 15, 2023, Barnett fled from Saline County Sheriff’s deputies, crashed into a house, and then ran on foot. Again, on February 29, 2024, he fled from deputies, nearly hitting other vehicles and running a red light. The pursuit ended when an Arkansas State Police (ASP) Trooper used a tactical vehicle intervention (TVI) to apprehend Barnett.
On May 10, 2024, Saline County Judge Josh Farmer found Barnett in violation of his probation and sentenced him to 30 years in the DOC, where he is currently residing in the Cummins Unit. On March 3, Barnett entered a plea agreement for an additional 20 years in the DOC for the new offenses. The two sentences will run consecutively, resulting in a total of 50 years in the DOC.
“These are the types of offenses where multiple people are put at serious risk of injury or death due to one person’s actions. I appreciate the efforts of the Saline County Sheriff’s Office and the Arkansas State Police in getting this dangerous individual off the streets,” said Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Shea Long.
“This recent conviction follows closely on the heels of a commitment from state prosecutors to rigorously pursue those who attempt to evade law enforcement,” said ASP Col. Mike Hagar. “I commend the Saline County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Saline County courts for ensuring that Barnett is held responsible for his dangerous and irresponsible conduct.”
