Heber Springs, AR – A longtime library director in Cleburne County has been arrested on felony theft and abuse of office charges following an investigation into the alleged misuse of taxpayer funds.
According to the Arkansas State Police, special agents with the Criminal Investigation Division arrested Cleburne County Public Library Director Zackery Cothren, 47, on Thursday, September 11. Authorities said the arrest followed a legislative audit that flagged questionable purchases and possible fraud earlier this year.
Prosecutors requested the investigation in May 2025. On September 11, an arrest warrant was issued, and Cothren was taken into custody at his residence in Cleburne County. He was booked into the Cleburne County Detention Center and later released on a $5,000 bond.
Investigators determined approximately $78,000 in public funds were misappropriated. Cothren has served as the library’s director for 20 years.
Arkansas State Police said the case will be prosecuted by the Sixteenth Judicial District. Cothren faces felony charges of Theft of Property and Abuse of Office.
Residents are encouraged to follow updates as the case proceeds through the county courts.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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