Man Accused In Murder To Hire Plot

BENTONVILLE — A Kansas City, Kan., man is being held in the Benton County Jail in connection with attempting to hire someone to kill a Northwest Arkansas resident.

Leo Mays, 49, was booked into the Benton County Jail at 2:22 a.m. Thursday. He was arrested in connection with conspiracy to commit capital murder. No bond has been set.

The Sheriff’s Office narcotics division received information Mays threatened an area resident, according to a news release from the Sheriff’s Office. Officials didn't identity the person threatened.

Deputies confirmed the threats and a meeting with Mays was arranged, according to the release.

Mays arrived and explained how he wanted the person murdered and how much he would pay to have it done, according to the release. An undercover detective was present and remained with Mays as he attempted to contact the person.

Deputies and Bentonville police officers then arrested Mays.

Mays was arrested Dec. 11 in connection with drug charges and was released on $15,000 bond.

He's charged with possession of methamphetamine or cocaine with the purpose to deliver, a Class A felony; and possession of a controlled substance, a Class D felony.

Mays is accused of possessing 11 grams of methamphetamine with the purpose to deliver. He also was unlawfully in possession of Oxycodone pills.

Mays appeared Tuesday in Circuit Judge Robin Green’s court for an arraignment, but the case was reset to Feb. 20 because Mays didn't have an attorney.

Mays’ arraignment is scheduled for 8 a.m. March 3 in Green’s court.

Upcoming Events