An Independence County jury found Samuel Cody Gladden, 43, and his wife Beth Leann Gladden, 36, guilty of multiple crimes involving minors in a three-day trial that concluded on Jan. 12.
According to a release from Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Kellye Barber’s office, Samuel Gladden was found guilty of one charge of second-degree sexual assault, a felony, and two misdemeanor crimes — knowingly giving alcohol to minors and contributing to the delinquency of minors.
The release said Gladden was sentenced to 16 years in the Arkansas Department of Correction on the sexual assault conviction and must additionally pay $18,540 in fines and fees for the three offenses. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.
Beth Gladden was found guilty of two misdemeanor charges — knowingly giving alcohol to minors and contributing to the delinquency of minors. She is required to pay $5,290 in fines and fees.
According to the release, the Gladdens were arrested after an October 2021 party at their home. Eight minors, ages 16-17, were at the Gladden home for a sleepover. The minor witnesses testified that the Gladdens had supplied them with alcohol for the party. After the party, a 16-year-old reported to the Independence County Sheriff’s office that she had been sexually assaulted by Samuel Gladden while she was sleeping. Lt. Zach Rawlins investigated the crimes.
The release noted 16th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Tim Weaver presided. Prosecuting Attorney Drew Smith and Barber presented the case for the state.
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