BENTONVILLE -- A former Rogers police officer is being held on a $10,000 bond after his arrest in connection with sexually assaulting a girl.
Michael Shane Harris, 47, of Pea Ridge appeared in court Thursday for his bond hearing.
West Fork police arrested Harris on Wednesday in connection with two counts of sexual assault involving a Benton County warrant.
Tyler Williams, Benton County deputy prosecutor, recommended a $150,000 bond be set for Harris.
Harris was notified an arrest warrant was issued for him, and he fled when West Fork police approached him Wednesday, Williams said. Police attempted to stop his vehicle, but Harris evaded the strips and the pursuit continued, she said.
Harris stopped his car and put a gun in his mouth. Police had to convince him not to shoot himself, Williams said.
"This is a serious charge," she said. "He is danger to the community."
Williams also said Harris is a danger to himself.
Billy Bob Webb, Harris' attorney, asked Benton County Circuit Judge Robin Green to consider releasing his client on his own recognizance. Harris went to the veteran's hospital and committed himself before the warrant was issued, and he's currently under its care, Webb said.
Webb said the police pursuit was a 25 to 35 mph situation. He added his client has suffered from brain cancer and a stroke.
Harris told Green he will live with his mother in West Fork when released from jail.
"I'm not going anywhere," he said.
He said the events Wednesday were "just a little to much," but he was not going to harm himself.
Green set Harris' bond at $10,000 and said he wear an ankle monitor if released.
"The great part of our system is that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty," Webb said. "There are two sides to all stories, and we look forward to presenting ours at the appropriate time."
Prosecutors have not filed a formal charge against Harris. His arraignment is scheduled for 8:30 a..m. Oct. 14.
Harris was injured in the line duty while working as a Rogers police officer. Terry Dale Moon shot Harris in a gunfight with police on Sept. 16, 2000 at Best Motors in Rogers. Harris was shot in the hip. Moon was shot and killed by officers.
NW News on 09/13/2019