September 4, 2026

HELENA-WEST HELENA, Ark. — A clerk for the Phillips County Judge’s Office has been charged with Theft of Property and Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card or Debit Card.

In August 2025, First Judicial District Prosecutor Todd Murray asked the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division to investigate the theft or misuse of a Phillips County credit card.

The investigation and an audit conducted by Arkansas Legislative Audit revealed that Kara Harvey, 44, made $16,642 in unallowable purchases, including 84 gift cards and prepaid debit cards.

On August 20, 2026, Harvey surrendered to the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, where she was served with a warrant and released on her own recognizance.

The case is still under investigation. No additional information will be released at this time.