by: Tyler Thomason Posted: Nov 6, 2019 / 09:00 PM CST / Updated: Nov 6, 2019 / 10:20 PM CST HOT SPRINGS, Ark. – A poem titled “New Lite” sparks memories of an old, dark secret. The secret starts in … Continue reading →

December 13, 2013 LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) — Arkansas is home to many natural wonders and scenic views, but it’s also home to unsolved mysteries. Listverse has put together the top 10 unexplained mysteries of Arkansas. 10. Old Mike – A man only … Continue reading →

MYSTERIES 10 Unexplained Mysteries From Arkansas BRANDON HOWARD DECEMBER 8, 2013 Don’t let the serenity of the Arkansas landscape fool you. The Natural State has more than enough of its dark secrets and skeletons in the closet to ruin the serenity. … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 1-26-1969 Recent Bride – Miss Linda Louise Ockert and Raymond Lee Edwards were married on Wednesday evening, Jan. 22, at Oaklawn Methodist Church. The Rev. John Miles performed the double-ring ceremony. The bride is the daughter of Mrs. … Continue reading →

By Roy Ockert Jr. Courier editor 8-29-2000 In June while marking the 25th anniversary of this column, we reprinted some of what I considered my best columns over the years. One of those was a column I wrote after the … Continue reading →

By LARRY AULT The Sentinel-Record 1-14-1977 Col. Doug Harp, director of the Arkansas State Police, says that the investigation into the disappearance of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards is continuing, even though law enforcement authorities have come up against … Continue reading →

By LARRY AULT The Sentinel-Record  1-15-1977 Mrs. Irene Browning, mother of Linda Edwards, a Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy who has been missing for the past five months, said Friday in an interview that despite all the conversation regarding the legalities … Continue reading →

Local comment The Sentinel-Record 1-15-1977 Garland County Sheriff Leon Barlow this past week jumped into the Linda Edwards mystery with both feet and landed with one foot squarely on the back of city police. Whatever his motivation in writing the … Continue reading →

Local Comment The Sentinel-Record 1-16-1977 Are city officials dragging their feet in the investigation of the disappearance of Linda Edwards? Probably not but Mrs. Edwards’ relatives and others think so and have thought so for some time. There is no … Continue reading →

Local Comment The Sentinel-Record 1-17-1977 The disappearance of Linda Edwards has stirred up a great deal of emotion around town. Rumors and criticism abound. In at least one instance, Mayor Tom Ellsworth has been unnecessarily criticized. In a recent Sentinel-Record … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 1-19-1977 By LARRY AULT Sam Stathakis, chairman of the Hot Springs Civil Service Commission, Tuesday made public a letter written to Garland County Sheriff Leon Barlow in response to criticism Barlow had levied against city officials in connection … Continue reading →

From our readers: The Sentinel-Record 1-1977 Dear editor: Linda Edwards’ mother, Mrs. Browning, stated that the city officials don’t care about her daughter. I believe nobody cares about anybody here in Hot Springs unless you tell them you’re from the … Continue reading →

From our readers: The Sentinel-Record 1-26-1977 Dear editor: I am disgusted with the criticism levied at Sheriff Barlow in the recent articles in your paper in regard to the Edwards case. If the city officials have nothing to cover up, … Continue reading →

From our readers: The Sentinel-Record 2-3-1977 Dear editor: I recently read an article in your newspaper concerning the missing lady Deputy, Linda Edwards and what efforts Sheriff Leon Barlow had put forth to find out what has happened to her. … Continue reading →

By DENNIS WOOTON The Sentinel-Record 2-14-1977 JACK MOUNTAIN – Skeletal remains later identified as those of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards, 29, missing since August, were discovered scattered across the face of this Hot Spring County mountain by a … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 2-14-1977 With the discovery of the remains of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards in a wooded area several miles south of the city Saturday, so ends a search that stymied local and state law enforcement officers for … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 2-14-1977 The hunter who located the first of the skeletal remains of missing Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards Saturday said Sunday night he had hunted in the same general area several times since her disappearance last August … Continue reading →

Batesville Daily Guard 2-14-1977 HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (AP) – The death of a Garland County deputy sheriff whose skeletal remains were found Sunday is expected to be ruled a homicide. The deputy, Linda Louise Edwards, 29, had been missing since … Continue reading →

Local Comment The Sentinel-Record   2-14-1977 Although it is an unhappy ending to a tormenting story, the discovery this past weekend of the remains of Linda Edwards at least allows her to be put to rest at long last. Her private … Continue reading →

By MARK PHILLIPS The Sentinel-Record 2-14-1977 The overwhelming emotions felt Sunday, by the family of missing Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards were ones of remorse and relief. Ms. Edwards’ remains were discovered Saturday on Jack Mountain by hunters and identified Sunday … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record   2-15-1977 Linda Louise Edwards, 29 at the time of her disappearance last August, was found dead Saturday afternoon on Jack Mountain in Hot Spring County. She was a native and life resident of Hot Springs and a Garland … Continue reading →

Gazette State News Service  2-15-1977 HOT SPRINGS – The state Medical Examiner’s Office reported Monday that Garland County Deputy Sheriff Linda L. Edwards died from “multiple blows to the head,” the State Police said. Sgt. Mike Fletcher of the Criminal … Continue reading →

By DENNIS WOOTON The Sentinel-Record 2-15-1977 Reports from the Arkansas State Police and the Garland County Sheriff’s Office indicated the State Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Monday that “multiple blows to the head” were the apparent cause in the death of … Continue reading →

By Roy Ockert Jr. Batesville Daily Guard 2-17-1977 WE HAD REACHED THE END of the road in trying to find my sister, Linda Edwards, who was last seen alive about midnight last Aug. 21. For days and days, this writer, … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 2-18-1977 A memorial service has been scheduled Friday at 2 p.m. for Linda Louise (Ockert) Edwards. 29, the Garland County sheriff’s deputy who was found dead Sunday. Mrs. Edwards had been missing since last Aug. 22. when her … Continue reading →

By MARK PHILLIPS The Sentinel-Record 2-24-1977 The findings of an Arkansas State Police investigation into the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards should be in the hands of Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole within the next … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 2-25-1977 Black flags of mourning currently are being flown on the radio antennas of all patrol and detective cars of the Garland County Sheriff’s Department in memory of deceased Deputy Linda Edwards. Sheriff Leon Barlow said Thursday the … Continue reading →

By MARK PHILLIPS The Sentinel-Record 3-2-1977 Representatives of the Arkansas State Police will be meeting with the Hot Spring County prosecuting attorney next Tuesday to discuss the current investigation into the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards. In … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 3-8-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole Monday confirmed that he will meet with Arkansas State Police investigators in Hot Springs today to review the findings of an investigation into the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards. … Continue reading →

By MARK PHILLIPS The Sentinel-Record 3-9-1977 During a meeting with Arkansas State Police investigators in Hot Springs Tuesday, Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole was given copies of all reports the investigators have developed on the death of Garland … Continue reading →

By MARK Phillips The Sentinel-Record 3-11-1977 The Hot Spring County prosecuting attorney said Thursday he has a suspect in the murder of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards, and that he expects to eventually have the evidence needed to file … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 3-12-1977 Those who fear the Linda Edwards matter will eventually be quietly dropped should take heart from the recent statements by the prosecuting attorney who is handling the case. John Cole of Sheridan said emphatically this past week … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 3-19-1977 A spokesman for the Arkansas State Police said Friday that no new developments have occurred in connection with the probe into the murder of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards. Representatives of the Prosecuting Attorneys Office in … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 3-29-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Monday he has thoroughly examined the case file on the Linda Edwards death, but wants to see the results of investigations into three additional areas before making a decision … Continue reading →

City Digest The Sentinel-Record 4-20-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Tuesday he will make a decision in May regarding the filing of charges in connection with the murder of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards. Cole said … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 5-10-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Monday he anticipates some headway in the investigation of the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards may be made in June. “We’re not through with the case … Continue reading →

City Digest The Sentinel-Record  5-19-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Wednesday no additional activity has occurred in connection with the investigation by his office of the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards. The remains of … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 5-19-1977 Late last summer, during the hot weekend of August 21-23, a blonde-haired mother of two from Hot Springs was brutally murdered in or near Hot Springs. By now the killer is probably feeling pretty secure in the … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record 5-19-1977 Associated Press Little Rock – The Committee on Legislative Affairs got organized Wednesday for its inquiry … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 5-21-1977 Dear Editor: I would like to thank you for your very honest editorial in the May 19 paper concerning my daughter’s brutal murder (Linda Edwards). It is indeed unbelievable to me that this case has been shoved … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 6-1-1977 Dear editor: This is a letter to the editor of the Sentinel-Record of Hot Springs and to the Daily Newspaper of Malvern, Ark. and to all of the concerned people of Garland and Hot Spring counties. I … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   6-14-1977 Little Rock (AP) – The legislative committee investigating Judge Henry B. Means of Malvern will … Continue reading →

By Mark Phillips The Sentinel-Record  6-29-1977 “My children have had to make some big changes, and I have too in trying to be a father and mother to them since Linda disappeared,” says Ray Edwards, the ex-husband of slain Garland … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record   7-7-1977 Garland County Sheriff Leon Barlow said Wednesday he personally investigated the discovery of a sheriff’s badge found by a Hot springs woman late Thursday. Barlow said his office was notified about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday that a … Continue reading →

Arkansas Democrat 7-9-1977 HOT SPRINGS– Lt. Thurman L. Abernathy, 36, a narcotics officer with the Hot Springs Police Department, was arrested Friday at his office and charged with first degree murder in the death of Mrs. Linda Edwards, 29, whose … Continue reading →

By NANCY BRITT The Sentinel-Record 7-9-1977 Hot Springs police Lt. Thurman Abernathy was charged Friday afternoon in Hot Spring County with murder in the first degree in connection with the death of Garland County Deputy Sheriff Linda Edwards. Abernathy, who … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 7-16-1977 It is inconceivable to us that a city police lieutenant could be the prime suspect in a first degree murder case and be able to remain on his job, as was the situation with Lt. Thurman Abernathy … Continue reading →

By MIKE MASTERSON Executive editor The Sentinel-Record 7-17-1977 Hot Springs Police Chief Grover Douglas said Thursday he talked with a police lieutenant now charged with first degree murder about that policeman accepting either a voluntary suspension or leave of absence … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   7-21-1977 Little Rock (AP) – The attorney general’s office has issued six subpoenas for documents related to … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   7-25-1977 Associated Press Little Rock  – The committee on Legislative Affairs sits down this week for … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   7-26-1977 Little Rock  – Witnesses disagreed Monday over whether Judge Henry B. Means of Malvern broke a … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   7-27-1977 Little Rock  (AP) – Atty. Gen. Bill Clinton produced data Tuesday showing that Judge Henry B. … Continue reading →

By NANCY BRITT The Sentinel-Record 7-29-1977 A charge of first degree murder against Hot Springs police Lt. Thurman Abernathy was filed direct in Hot Spring County Circuit Court Thursday, bypassing Municipal Court and grand jury proceedings. Abernathy was charged July … Continue reading →

City Digest The Sentinel-Record 8-4-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Wednesday the first-degree murder trial of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy probably will not be set until January or early February. He said it is unlikely … Continue reading →

City Digest The Sentinel-Record 8-18-1977 The Hot Springs Civil Service Commission has continued indefinitely a suspension of police Lt. Thurman Abernathy which was initiated by Police Chief Grover Douglas on July 8, when the officer was charged with first degree murder in … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   8-30-1977 Little Rock (AP) – Judge Henry B. Means of Malvern showed up Monday at the meeting … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   8-31-1977 Little Rock (AP) – A legislative committee concluded late Tuesday that Judge Henry B. Means of … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   9-4-1977 Little Rock (AP) – “When it came down to it, I think the committee could see … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   9-24-1977 Associated Press MALVERN, Ark – Judge Henry B. Means of Malvern, circuit judge of the 7th … Continue reading →

City Digest Sentinel-Record 10-9-1977 Former Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Louise Edwards who was apparently murdered on Aug. 22, 1976 and whose remains were found on Jack Mountain in February, was buried in Greenwood Cemetery Saturday morning with only family … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   10-17-1977 MALVERN, Ark (AP) – The state Supreme Court will be asked to furnish judges for Circuit … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   10-18-1977 Little Rock (AP) – Circuit Court Judge Henry B. Means of Malvern has not given up … Continue reading →

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. The Sentinel-Record   10-21-1977 Little Rock (AP) – The investigation of Judge Henry B. Means of Malvern has come to a … Continue reading →

City Digest The Sentinel-Record 11-3-1977 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Wednesday the trial date for Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy will be set either this month or next month. He said a pre-trial conference will be held … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 12-16-1977 The first-degree murder trial of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy has been set for Feb. 22 in Hot Spring County Circuit Court. Abernathy is charged in the death of Garland County Deputy … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 12-21-1977 Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy will be arraigned on a first-degree murder charge Thursday morning in Hot Spring County Circuit Court. Abernathy is accused of killing Garland County Deputy Linda Edwards, whose … Continue reading →

Arkansas Times  7-26-2007 After 30 years, a murder victim’s son mistrusts officials’ reluctance.  By Mara Leveritt Mike Fletcher was a young investigator for the Arkansas State Police in 1976, when he was assigned to investigate the disappearance of Linda Edwards, … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record   8-8-2007 Still seeking justice Dear editor: Almost 31 years have passed since Linda Edwards was brutally murdered. The family is still trying to see this case solved and their mother’s murder brought to justice. We understand that … Continue reading →

By JAMES JENNINGS The Sentinel-Record 8-22-2007 Another year has passed, 31 in all, since 29-year-old Garland County Sheriff’s Department dispatcher Linda Edwards was killed, and her family is frustrated the the person or persons responsible for her death still have … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 8-22-2007 A grim anniversary Dear editor: Disappearance, homicide – sounds like something out of a soap opera. Unfortunately, these affected my life by the age of six. At six years, I experienced life in a way that no … Continue reading →

Thank you to the following newspapers for publishing our Letter to the Editor: 8-22-2007 Batesville Daily Guard Newport Daily Independent Texarkana Gazette The Sheridan Headlight Dear Editor: Murder, lies, sex…sounds like something out of a soap opera. Unfortunately, this affected … Continue reading →

By JAMES JENNINGS The Sentinel-Record 8-28-2007 A potential witness has decided to come forward in a 31-year-old murder cold case. After reading an Aug. 22 story in The Sentinel-Record about the unsolved homicide of Linda, Edwards, Carter McCaslin, a former … Continue reading →

Thank you to the following newspapers for publishing our Letter to the Editor on August 28, 2007 Batesville Daily Guard Newport Daily Independent The Sheridan Headlight The Standard – Amity, Glenwood Thank you for printing our previous letter regarding Linda … Continue reading →

Publication Unknown  8-24-1976 HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (AP) – The search continued today for a female deputy of the Garland County sheriff’s office who has been missing since Saturday. Authorities said they had no idea of her whereabouts. Linda Edwards, 29, … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record   8-24-1976 A search was underway late Monday for a Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy who has apparently been missing since mid-weekend, Deputy Roy Smith of the Sheriff’s Department reported. Missing is Linda Edwards, a woman in her mid-twenties, who … Continue reading →

By LARRY AULT The Sentinel-Record  8-25-1976 The mysterious disappearance of a 29-year-old female deputy last weekend in Garland County has members of the Garland County Sheriff’s Department alert and working, however the official reaction of the department is that the … Continue reading →

By Larry Ault The Sentinel-Record  8-26-1976 The Garland County Sheriff’s Department Wednesday called the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Forces into the search for a missing female deputy. Deputy Linda Edwards, a 29-year-old radio operator who has been with the … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 8-27-1976 Law enforcement authorities in Arkansas Thursday were unable to make any substantial advances in the investigation into the disappearance of a female Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy. Missing since last weekend is 29-year-old Linda Edwards, who had worked … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 8-28-1976 Four members of the Hot Springs Police Department have received promotional appointments, according to police chief Grover Douglas. The officers were selected from both the 1976 and 1977 eligibility lists, Douglas said Friday. Promoted to lieutenant were … Continue reading →

By DENNIS WOOTTON The Sentinel-Record   8-29-1976 State police, now conducting the investigation into the disappearance of a Garland County Sheriff’s deputy, took to the air Saturday in an attempt to more thoroughly search the area where the missing officer’s … Continue reading →

By MELNDA GASSAWAY The Sentinel-Record 8-31-1976 The Garland County Sheriff’s Department and Arkansas State Police Monday reported no new developments into their investigation of the Aug. 21 disappearance of Linda Edwards, 28. The missing woman’s brother, however, pieced together a personal … Continue reading →

By Roy Ockert Jr. Batesville Daily Guard 9-1-1976 AFTER WRITING HUNDREDS of impersonal crime stories over some 18 years as a journalist, this editor has felt, really for the first time, the terror of being a victim. If the reader … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-2-1976 Despite rumors to the contrary and numerous telephone calls, missing Garland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Linda Edwards has not been found, according to Sheriff Leon Barlow. He said Wednesday night that numerous calls had been made within … Continue reading →

By STEELE HAYS Democrat Staff Writer 9-4-1976 HOT SPRINGS – Garland County authorities, obviously frustrated in their search for Linda Edwards – a radio dispatcher for the Garland County Sheriff’s Department missing since Aug. 22 – said Friday they fear Mrs. Edwards … Continue reading →

By LARRY AULT The Sentinel-Record   9-4-1976 The Garland County Sheriff’s Department and the Arkansas State Police Friday requested aid from the general public in the search for missing Deputy Sheriff Linda Edwards. The search for the missing deputy sheriff … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-10-1976 One of the most distressing aspects of the disappearance of Linda Edwards is the eruption of rumors about her absence. The young Garland County Deputy Sheriff has been missing for sometime now and the stories that seem … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-10-1976 Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Roy Smith said Thursday that the search for a missing 29-year-old female deputy sheriff is continuing; authorities are not expressing any hope, however that the woman will be found. Missing for over two … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-23-1976 A reward fund of at least $1,000 is being established to aid in the investigation of the disappearance of Garland County Deputy Sheriff Linda Edwards. Mrs. Edwards, 29, disappeared on the night of Saturday, Aug. 21. Her … Continue reading →

Batesville Guard 9-23-1976 HOT SPRINGS – A reward fund of $1,000 is being established to aid in the investigation of the disappearance of Garland County Deputy Sheriff Linda Edwards. Mrs. Edwards, 29, disappeared on the night of Saturday, Aug.21. Her … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 10-5-1976 The Garland County Grand Jury met Monday at the Garland County Court House. It was reported that the grand jury investigated, among other things, the disappearance of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards. Ms. Edwards has been … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 10-16-1976   In loving memory of Linda Edwards on her 30th birthday today Wishing we could share it with her, Her family  We still have hope and determination that truth and justice, in this free and open society, will prevail.

TWO IMPORTANT QUESTIONS OF COMMUNITY VALUE? STATEMENT The Sentinel-Record 11-1976 If you are arrested, one of the first things you are asked to do by a Policeman, Sheriff or Deputy, or Judge is to take a lie detector test. A. … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 11-5-1976 Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigator Mike Fletcher said Thursday that local law enforcement authorities have requested hunters participating in deer season activities next week to be on the look-out for any evidence which might reveal the whereabouts … Continue reading →

By NANCY BRITT The Sentinel-Record   11-24-1976 The disappearance 12 weeks ago of Garland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Linda Edwards remains unsolved according to law enforcement officials while her family remains in somewhat limbo, feeling there is nothing left they … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record   12-2-1976 THIS IS AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING THE JUDGE WHO RULED ALL OF THE TESTIMONY IN THE LINDA EDWARDS CASE AS “HEARSAY”. Little Rock (AP) – U.S. Atty. W. H. “Sonny” Dillahunty said Wednesday “some lenient treatment” apparently … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record  12-23-1976   By LARRY AULT The 1976 Garland County Grand Jury Wednesday submitted its year end report to Garland Circuit Judge Henry M. Britt, making several comments regarding the “outside employment” or “moonlighting” by governmental employees. The grand jury … Continue reading →

Viewpoint: Local comment The Sentinel-Record   12-31-1976 Chief of Police Grover Douglas recently initiated disciplinary action against several of his officers. He indicated the officers acted in such a way as to deserve punishment. Any such move on his part … Continue reading →

ARKANSAS SHERIFF and deputy page 20 The Arkansas Sheriffs’ Association wishes to express its sympathy to the family and friends of the following law enforcement officers who passed away this past year. These men and women were dedicated officers and … Continue reading →

September 21, 1993 as told to C. Shauck A READER’S STORY Kim Smoke was four years old when her mother was murdered. She never got over the loss. Instead, as a troubled teenager, she turned to drugs to numb her … Continue reading →

 Chris Shaw, Reporter KTHV 8-27-2004 Transcript More than 28 years after Linda Edwards was brutally murdered, her children ask to have her body exhumed in hopes DNA can help catch her killer. Toby Edwards calls it a long shot, one … Continue reading →

By DON THOMASON The Sentinel-Record 8-31-2004 Twenty-eight years after her murder, the children of former Garland County sheriff’s deputy Linda Edwards are requesting her body be exhumed for DNA testing. Vicky Edwards, wife of Edwards’ son Toby, said Monday, “What … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-1-2004 Children seek exhumation Dear editor: Twenty-eight years ago, somebody may have gotten away with murder. I can only assume that this person or persons have lived a fulfilling, happy life. I can only assume that they have … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-13-2004 A plea for help Dear editor: Twenty-eight years ago this month Linda Edwards was brutally murdered and her body dumped in the woods. To this day, no one has been held responsible for her death. No person … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-18-2004 The public is fascinated with what authorities call “cold cases” crimes that have gone unsolved for months, years, even decades. And while these subjects make for entertaining television or interesting non-fiction books, they continue to cause great … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 9-21-2004 A daughter’s plea Dear editor: I would like to start out by saying that it is hard for me to write this letter. I have been avoiding the news channels and I have agreed to speak with … Continue reading →

By JERRY DEAN Arkansas Democrat  March 6, 1979 The state Supreme Court Monday issued two procedural rules in cases involving slayings of police officers in Garland and Washington counties. The court ordered a Washington Circuit Court to allow James Ray … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 3-6-1979 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Harmon said Monday he will have to re-evaluate the first-degree murder case of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy in view of a ruling in the case earlier … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 3-16-1979 Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Harmon said Thursday he will confer with the Arkansas State Police before deciding whether to try Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy on a first-degree murder charge. “I … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 3-23-1979 A decision on whether Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy will be tried on a first-degree murder charge is expected to be announced today at 1:30 p.m. press conference at the Hot Spring … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 3-24-1979 MALVERN– Seventh Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney Dan Harmon said Friday he will nol pros a first-degree murder charge against Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy then submit the case to the Hot Spring County … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 3-24-1979 Hot Springs Police Chief Grover Douglas said Friday Det. Lt. Thurman Abernathy will be eligible to seek reinstatement to the department when a first-degree murder charge against him is nol prossed next week. Seventh Judicial District Prosecuting … Continue reading →

By LARRY AULT ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT ARKADELPHIA BUREAU MARCH 24, 1979 MALVERN – A first-degree murder charge against Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, charged with the death of Linda Edwards, a Garland County sheriff’s deputy who disappeared in August 1976, will … Continue reading →

NOTE THIS ARTICLE IS NOT RELATED TO MY MOTHER’S CASE, JUST AN INTERESTING ARTICLE REGARDING POSSIBLE CORRUPTION IN HOT SPRING COUNTY. The Sentinel-Record 3-27-1979 Malvern, Ark. (AP) – The Little Rock office of the FBI confirmed Monday that Hot Spring … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 4-3-1979 A motion to dismiss a first-degree murder charge against Hot Springs Lt. Thurman Abernathy will be filed Wednesday in Hot Spring County Circuit Court, Prosecuting Attorney Dan Harmon said Monday. Harmon announced over a … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 5-9-1979 Jefferson County Circuit Judge Randall Williams has been appointed to preside over a Hot Spring County Grand Jury that will hear evidence concerning a first-degree murder charge against Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 6-1-1979 Jefferson County Circuit Judge Randall Williams Thursday said June 15 has been tentatively set as the empanelment date of a Hot Spring County Grand Jury that will hear evidence concerning a first-degree murder charge … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 6-8-1979 Evidence concerning a first degree murder charge against Hot Springs police Lt. Thurman Abernathy will be presented to a Hot Spring County Grand Jury next Friday morning, Prosecuting Attorney Dan Harmon said Thursday. Harmon … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 6-15-1979 Two witnesses have been subpoenaed to testify today before a Hot Spring County Grand Jury that will be presented with evidence by Prosecutor Dan Harmon, who is seeking a first-degree murder indictment against Hot … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 6-17-1979 MALVERN– The Hot Spring County Grand Jury voted unanimously Friday not to return a first-degree murder indictment against Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy for the 1976 death of Garland County Deputy Sheriff Linda Edwards. The Grand Jury reached the decision after listening to just over … Continue reading →

By REX HOGAN The Sentinel-Record 6-20-1979 Hot Springs Civil Service Commissioners are expected June 28 to approve a petition lifting the two-year suspension of former policeman Lt. Thurman Abernathy, who wants to rejoin the city force. City Attorneys Curtis Ridgeway … Continue reading →

By LARRY AULT DEMOCRAT ARKADELPHIA BUREAU 6-23-79 HOT SPRINGS – A Hot Springs police officer suspended from his job for two years while charged with the first-degree murder of a Garland County sheriff’s deputy has asked to be reinstated to … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 6-28-1979 The Civil Service Commission may not vote today on whether to lift the two-year suspension of city policeman Lt. Thurman Abernathy. Commission Chairman Joe Poe said Wednesday commissioners had not received documents confirming … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 6-29-1979 The Hot Springs Civil Service Commission took no action Thursday on former police Lt. Thurman Abernathy’s request for reinstatement. Commission Chairman Joe Poe said the commission has not received documents confirming reports that … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 7-17-1979 The Hot Springs Civil Service Commission probably will lift the two-year suspension of former police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, when it meets at noon today at the Holiday Inn East, 1125 East Grand. Commission … Continue reading →

By REX HOGAN The Sentinel-Record 7-18-79 Members of the Hot Springs Civil Service Commission Tuesday voted unanimously to end former police lieutenant Thurman Abernathy’s two-year suspension and directed he be “notified to report to duty immediately.” The five-man board last … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 7-19-1979 City detectives are investigating an apparent death threat made Wednesday against recently reinstated Hot Springs police officer Thurman Abernathy. The threat, made during a telephone call to The Sentinel-Record, came about 11:20 a.m. … Continue reading →

By SUZIE SIEGEL The Sentinel-Record 7-19-1979 Police Chief Grover Douglas Wednesday demoted newly reinstated Thurman Abernathy from the rank of lieutenant to sergeant on the charge of conduct unbecoming an officer. Although the disciplinary move goes back to 1977, Douglas … Continue reading →

City and State Digest The Sentinel-Record 8-3-1979 The Hot Springs Civil Service Commission will hear a protest from recently reinstated police officer Thurman Abernathy on Aug. 10. Commission Chairman Joe Poe said the date was set during the commission’s Wednesday … Continue reading →

By BEVERLY MOORE The Sentinel-Record 8-5-1979 The Hot Springs City Council will consider an ordinance to grant police Sgt. Thurman Abernathy $14,854.94 in back pay in its 7:30 p.m. meeting Monday at the Municipal Building. Abernathy was reinstated to the … Continue reading →

By BEVERLY MOORE The Sentinel-Record 8-7-1979 The Hot Springs City Council Monday night unanimously approved $14,854.94 in back pay to Hot Springs Police Department Sgt. Thurman Abernathy. Abernathy was paid for the period from July 7, 1977 to July 17, … Continue reading →

By Rex Hogan The Sentinel-Record 8-10-79 Thurman Abernathy, the former police lieutenant charged two years ago with the death of a Hot Springs woman, hand delivered a resignation letter Thursday to police Chief Grover Douglas. Shortly thereafter, the 12-year police … Continue reading →

By REX HOGAN The Sentinel-Record 8-16-1979 Gladys Irene Browning, the mother of Linda Edwards, has filed a civil suit in Garland County Circuit Court, alleging former city policeman Thurman Abernathy is responsible for her daughter’s death and seeks a court … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 1-9-2005 Time for the truth Dear editor: Months have come and gone as I awaited word on the exhumation of my friend. Last I heard on Dec. 6, the papers were in the hands of a Garland County … Continue reading →

By DON THOMASON The Sentinel-Record 8-20-2006 Thirty years after her death, Linda Edwards’ children are still trying to solve the mystery of who killed their mother. At the time of her death, the 29-year-old Edwards was the day radio operator … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 8-21-2006 Family seeks truth Dear editor: Linda Louise (Ockert) Edwards, (1946-1976), a mere 29 years old. Today, Aug. 21, is the 30-year anniversary of the last time I ever saw my mother alive and I’m still left with … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 2-17-1978 The first-degree murder trial of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, who is charged in the death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards, has been continued indefinitely in Hot Spring County Circuit Court. … Continue reading →

By WARREN MAUS  The Sentinel-Record 2-21-1978 The first degree murder trial of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, which was set off indefinitely last week, may not come to trial until August, according to Hot Spring Prosecuting Attorney John Cole. … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 2-27-1978 Thumbs down to a system of justice that supposedly provides for a speedy trial while also allowing a policeman charged with first degree murder to possibly go more than a year before his case is finally heard.

By BENNIE IVORY  The Sentinel-Record 3-16-1978 The first degree murder trial of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, who is charged in the 1976 death of Garland County Sheriff’s Deputy Linda Edwards, has been continued indefinitely for the second time … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 3-20-1978 Thumbs down again to the lethargic legal system which permits repeated delays in a first degree murder trial. Last weeks’s announcement of a second “indefinite” continuance in the case of Thurman Abernathy, a Hot Springs policeman charged … Continue reading →

Bennie Ivory The Sentinel-Record 3-31-78 Sheridan – Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole Thursday said a hearing will be held sometime in April on the admissibility of certain evidence the state intends to introduce in its case against Hot … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY  The Sentinel-Record 5-11-1978 SHERIDAN – Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole Wednesday said he has agreed to a stipulation concerning evidence he plans to present in the first-degree murder trial of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy. … Continue reading →

By MARK PHILLIPS  and By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 5-25-1978 The race for the Democratic nomination for Garland County Sheriff has drawn three candidates whose philosophies on the office lay along the same lines. The two challengers in the race … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 6-3-1978 A trial date for Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, who is charged with first-degree murder, is expected to be set during pre-trial conference in Malvern Monday, according to Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole. Abernathy … Continue reading →

Letters to the editor  The Sentinel-Record 6-4-1978 Dear editor: I have never written to the newspaper before, but I do feel one who knows what a splendid job that Sheriff Barlow has done would speak up. Mr. Editor, I am … Continue reading →

City and State Digest  The Sentinel-Record 6-6-1978 Hot Spring County Circuit Judge Henry Means Monday cancelled a pre-trial conference in which a trial date for Hot Springs Lt. Thurman Abernathy was expected to be set. Abernathy is charged in the … Continue reading →

Letters to the editor  The Sentinel-Record 6-11-1978 Dear editor: In answer to a recent letter published in your newspaper, criticizing Sheriff Leon Barlow, for the way he handled the case of Linda Edwards, who was murdered August 21, 1976. I … Continue reading →

Letters to the editor  The Sentinel-Record 6-14-1978 Dear editor: In answer to Irene Browning’s Letter to the Editor of June 11, 1978. As a mother who loves her children more than life itself, I do not and can not understand why you … Continue reading →

City and State Digest  The Sentinel-Record 7-7-1978 A trial date has been set August 13-15 in Hot Spring County Circuit Court for Lt. Thurman Abernathy, accused of murdering a Garland County Sheriff’s deputy in 1976. Abernathy has been charged with … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 7-10-1978 Thumbs up – at last – to the setting of a trial date for Lt. Thurman Abernathy, a suspended Hot Springs police officer charged in 1976 with first degree murder in connection with the death of Linda … Continue reading →

City and State Digest  The Sentinel-Record 7-25-1978 An Aug. 8 hearing on a defense motion to suppress certain evidence in the prosecution’s case against Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, who is charged with first-degree murder, has been set in … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 8-8-1978 A hearing on a motion to suppress part of the prosecution’s case against Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy, who is charged with first-degree murder, will be held this morning in Hot Spring County Circuit Court in … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 8-9-1978 MALVERN – After listening to about 30 minutes of testimony, Hot Spring County Judge Henry B. Means Tuesday ruled inadmissible testimony about alleged statements Garland County Sheriff Deputy Linda Edwards made in conversations with … Continue reading →

Publication  Unknown – 8-9-1978 Sarah Edwards, a State Police radio dispatcher, testified Tuesday that Linda Edwards and Abernathy had had an affair for approximately three years before her death. Sarah Edwards said Linda Edwards became pregnant and told her Abernathy … Continue reading →

Publication Unknown  8-9-1978 MALVERN (AP) – The testimony of a woman who said Garland County Deputy Linda Edwards was going to meet a Hot Springs policeman on the night she disappeared was ruled inadmissible Tuesday. Circuit Judge Henry Means of … Continue reading →

Gazette State News 8-10-1978 SHERIDAN – Prosecuting Attorney John W. Cole of Sheridan said Wednesday that he would file a notice of appeal with the Arkansas Supreme Court asking for a reversal of Circuit Judge Henry B. Means’ ruling that … Continue reading →

By BENNIE IVORY The Sentinel-Record 8-10-1978 SHERIDAN – Hot Spring County Prosecuting Attorney John Cole said Wednesday he has decided to appeal a lower court ruling in the first-degree murder case of Hot Springs Police Lt. Thurman Abernathy to the state … Continue reading →

The Sentinel-Record 11-10-1978 The appeal of a Hot Spring County Circuit Court ruling in the Linda Edwards’ murder case is still pending in the state Supreme Court, Paul Blume, deputy Arkansas Attorney General, said Thursday. Mrs. Edwards, a Garland County … Continue reading →