Yellville, Ark. – A Marion County man and former airport treasurer has admitted to felony charges related to theft and abuse of office, authorities say.
According to the Arkansas State Police, Douglas Starkey, 66, of Yellville, pleaded guilty in Marion County Circuit Court on May 20 to one count of felony Theft of Property and one count of felony Abuse of Office. The plea followed a months-long investigation that began after the 14th Judicial Prosecutor’s Office raised concerns about missing funds at the Marion County Regional Airport in Flippin.
Special agents from the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division allege Starkey, who served as treasurer of the airport’s Board of Directors, stole $117,696 during his tenure. Starkey was arrested by ASP CID Special Agents on May 12, according to the police statement.
As part of his plea agreement, Starkey will serve six years of probation and is required to pay full restitution of $117,696 to the Marion County Regional Airport. Officials say the investigation was initiated following irregularities identified by airport officials, leading to the involvement of state police.
Authorities have not released further information about how the missing funds were discovered or the timeline of the alleged offenses, but emphasized that the airport is working closely with law enforcement to strengthen financial oversight. No additional arrests have been made in connection with the case.
Residents and officials in Marion County have expressed relief that restitution will be made, and the case has renewed calls for transparency in public office across the region.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant new stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
