Search Warrant Leads to Suspect Being Found in Secret Escape Hatch

  On 11/4/13, detectives with the Benton Police Department Special Investigative Unit (SIU) in conjunction with the SWAT team executed a search warrant at Bailey’s Trailer Park on N. Summit Road.  The warrant was in relation to a month long investigation of the delivery of illegal narcotics (methamphetamine) on a suspect, Joey Harrington (43 YOA). 

    Upon initial execution of the search warrant, officers located a subject in the residence who was identified as Julie Harrington (40 YOA).  Officers weren’t able to initially locate Mr. Harrington, but upon further investigation they discovered prior to entering his residence he had entered a self-built escape hatch in the floor of his trailer and was hiding there until discovered by officers.  He had built an elaborate tunnel system under the trailer and officers had to enter it to effect his arrest, which resulted in him becoming combative with them and resisting arrest. 

Mr. Harrington is charged with Delivery of Methamphetamine, Maintaining a Drug Premises, Unauthorized Use of Another Person’s Property to Facilitate a Crime, Resisting Arrest, and Disorderly Conduct.  He also had an active felony warrant out of Saline County for back child support payments.  Ms. Harrington was charged with Hindering Apprehension for actions taken to conceal Mr. Harrington’s location.  

    Anyone with information about this crime is encouraged to contact the Benton Police Department at 778-1171 or 315-TIPS. Individuals also may send an anonymous crime tip about this incident to CRIMES (274637) with the keyword BNPD in the body of the text or go to www.crimereports.com to leave a tip.  

    Any suspects listed are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.