Law enforcement authorities announced they have arrested a suspect in the murder of former Arkansas Democrat-turned-Republican state Sen. Linda Collins-Smith.
All options, including the death penalty, are on the table.
Per Fox News:
Rebecca Lynn O’Donnell, 48, was also charged Monday with abuse of a corpse and tampering with physical evidence and ordered held without bond. She was arrested Friday in connection with Collins-Smith’s death.
The former 57-year-old lawmaker was found dead outside her own home in Pocahontas, around 130 miles northeast of Little Rock, on June 4.
But beyond those basic facts, most elements of the case remain undisclosed by authorities. It’s not clear when or how officials believe she died or what O’Donnell’s motive may have been. Further clouding the case, a judge sided with prosecutors and ordered police documents sealed. Prosecutors had argued the files could prejudice public opinion prior to a trial and also stressed the release of the information at the current time could harm the ongoing investigation into Collins-Smith’s death.
Court records prove that O’Donnell and Collins had a close relationship outside of work. O’Donnell even appeared as a corroborating witness in Collins’ divorce case.
After switching parties, Collins won election to the state Senate where she became one of the most conservative lawmakers in the GOP-dominated chamber.
AAN Staff
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