Scared Monkeys Discussion Forum

Bentonville Police Discover Body of Missing 6-Year-Old
Updated: November 21, 2012

BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- A 6-year old girl from Bentonville was found dead Tuesday morning, shortly after being reported missing. Now, police are trying to piece together what happened

It started as a missing persons report just before 7:00 Tuesday morning, but police say within minutes the body of a 6-year-old girl was found and it quickly became a homicide investigation.

Bentonville police along with the help of Rogers PD and the Benton County Sherriff's Office all covering as much ground as possible here on southeast A street earlier today.

About three houses were blocked off with police tape. One of the houses is where the girl was reported to be missing. A couple houses down is where officials removed a body just before noon today. Police are not releasing exactly what happened to the girl it's still unclear exactly where the body was found.

We do know this child was a student in the Bentonville School District and neighbors tell me they saw her celebrating her birthday this past weekend

 ::snipping2::

Property owners tell KNWA News the person renting one of the homes being investigated is Desiree Bridgeman and is the mother of the victim.

Family members identify the girl's father as David Bridgeman.

David Bridgeman was sentenced to 18 years in prison in 2011 for chaining his daughter to a dresser. Bridgeman pleaded guilty to three felony charges in the case.

 ::snipping2::

http://ozarksfirst.com/fulltext?nxd_id=732142

Police wait for search warrant in 6-year-old's murder investigation
Missing girl found dead in vacant Bentonville home Tuesday
11:34 AM CST Nov 21, 2012


BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Bentonville Police have launched a homicide investigation after finding the body of a 6-year-old Bentonville girl, said Police Chief Jon Simpson.


Neighbors said said the girl's name is Jersey Bridgeman.

Bentonville police said Jersey's father, David Bridgeman, 26, and stepmother, Jana Bridgeman, 29, remain in custody on felony charges of permitting the abuse of a minor, endangering the welfare of a minor in the first degree and false imprisonment in the first degree.

The couple, who were both sentenced after admitting to chaining the girl to a dresser, in their home.

Authorities said her father, David Bridgeman, told officers that they chained the girl to the dresser because she sleep walks and had gotten into chemicals in the kitchen.

 ::snipping2::


Records from the Benton County Assessor's office show both of the homes at 608 and 704 SE A St. are owned by the same couple. The couple's last known address is in Brooklyn, New York, according to county records.

http://www.4029tv.com/news/arkansas/northwest/Police-wait-for-search-warrant-in-6-year-old-s-murder-investigation/-/8897460/17485654/-/hi2jjj/-/index.html

6-year-old girl murdered in Arkansas  (Video)
5:18 PM, Nov 20, 2012

http://www.ksdk.com/news/article/348243/28/6-year-old-girl-murdered-in-Arkansas

God, what a sad little life she had.   ::MonkeyNoNo::  I have a friend in that area and she said local reports are saying for the public not to worry, blah, blah, blah.  Sounds like they know who did it.

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/11/23/authorities-probing-death-6-year-old-arkansas-girl-question-sex-offenders-in/

Authorities probing death of 6-year-old Arkansas girl question sex offenders in hunt for killer
By Cristina Corbin
Published November 23, 2012
FoxNews.com

(http://a57.foxnews.com/global.fncstatic.com/static/managed/img/U.S./660/371/JerseyBridgemanheadshot.jpg)

Arkansas authorities are questioning registered sex offenders in their investigation into the death of a 6-year-old girl, whose body was found Tuesday in a vacant home not far from where she lived with her mother.

Bentonville Police Captain Justin Thompson told FoxNews.com that no suspects or persons of interests have been named in the killing of Jersey Bridgeman. But he said police detectives and FBI agents are interviewing several known sex offenders in the area as they hunt for the child's killer.

"Obviously anyone close to this girl is someone we're going to look at now," Thompson said Friday.

Jersey was living with her biological mother, DesaRae Bridgeman, at her home in Bentonville, about 215 miles northwest of Little Rock. The girl had previously lived with her father, David Bridgeman, and stepmother, Jana Bridgeman, who are both serving prison terms for chaining Jersey to a dresser last year.

DesaRae Bridgeman told police she last saw her daughter when she put her to bed around midnight on Tuesday. She reported the girl missing around 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, when she was not found in her room, authorities said.

Within 10 minutes, police found the child's body inside an abandoned home about 200 feet away, according to Thompson. The abandoned house belongs to a New York couple who are not considered suspects, he said. 

Thompson said an autopsy has been completed, but he declined to release the cause of death, saying only that the case is being investigated as a homicide.

"The investigation in its entirety so far has led us to believe this is a homicide," he said.

Thompson declined to say who, besides Jersey's mother, was living in the home at the time of her disappearance. He said there were no signs of forced entry.

 ::snipping2::

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/24/jersey-bridgeman-arkansas-girl-vacant-house_n_2184303.html

Jersey Bridgeman, Arkansas Girl Found In Vacant House, Was Happy Child At School
By JEANNIE NUSS 11/23/12 08:15 PM ET EST   

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Jersey Bridgeman endured a lot in her young life, including abuse at the hands of her father and stepmother, but school officials say she was still a happy little girl.

Now, with the couple away in prison for chaining her to a dresser last year, authorities are trying to figure out who killed the 6-year-old. Her body was found in a vacant house this week in Bentonville, a northwest Arkansas city best known as the home of Wal-Mart's headquarters.

"To find out that the girl had been abused before, to me it was like: `You've got to be kidding me,'" said Mike Poore, school superintendent in Bentonville, where Jersey attended kindergarten at Sugar Creek Elementary. "How can someone that young go through so much?"

Still, despite the hardships she faced, Jersey managed to delight those she met.

"She's an amazing child," said Mary Ley, communications director for Bentonville schools. "She'd been through a lot and still had joy."

Police in the city about 215 miles northwest of Little Rock have said they're investigating Jersey's death as a homicide, but they won't disclose how she died. In a statement Friday, they said the girl's family members have been cooperating with detectives but do not want to speak to the media "during this time of grieving" and "ask that their privacy be respected."

Authorities haven't arrested anyone in connection with Jersey's death or publicly identified any suspects or persons of interest.

"There's no reason ... for the community to be worried at this point," Capt. Justin Thompson told The Associated Press on Friday. He would not say whether authorities think someone who knew the girl killed her.

Thompson said Jersey's body was found in a vacant house two doors down from the home where she lived with her mother. He said investigators believe the girl died sometime between midnight and 6:53 a.m. Tuesday, when her body was found about 10 minutes after someone called police to report her missing.


 ::snipping2::

Jersey's death comes almost a year after her father and stepmother chained her to a dresser in nearby Rogers.

 ::snipping2::
 

From the looks of mom's FB page...it appears that mom has a new boyfriend.  It doesn't mean anything...just something to look at.

https://www.facebook.com/desarae.bridgeman?ref=ts&fref=ts

To have been through so much, and still have joy; and now this. 

 ::MonkeyNoNo:: ::MonkeyTears::

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2237504/Police-question-sex-offenders-death-tragic-year-old-girl-murdered-YARDS-home--year-father-jailed-keeping-chained-dresser.html

Police question sex offenders over murder of six-year-old girl found yards from her home - a year after father was jailed for chaining her to a dresser

Jersey Bridgeman was in the care of her biological mother DesaRae Bridgeman at the time of her death
Her body was found in a vacant house close to where she lived with her mom and mom's boyfriend
Police have classified case as homicide
Father  and stepmother both serving prison sentences for child abuse
By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
PUBLISHED: 13:35 EST, 23 November 2012 | UPDATED: 14:49 EST, 23 November 2012


 ::snipping2::

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/11/23/article-0-162EC734000005DC-155_634x404.jpg)

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/11/22/article-2236668-162A3E7A000005DC-566_634x354.jpg)
Birthday: Jersey turned six-years-old last week

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/11/22/article-2236668-1628743D000005DC-652_634x286.jpg)
Shaken: More than 100 people gathered Tuesday to hold a candlelight vigil for Bridgeman.

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/11/22/article-2236668-1628744A000005DC-141_634x286.jpg)
Remembered: The six-year-old was well loved in her community and many describing her as being special.

 ::snipping2::

On Tuesday more than 100 people gathered at the Children's Advocacy Center to hold a candlelight vigil in honor of the girl. Members of the event were visible distraught by the girl's death, and to many, she was well-loved.

'There was a unique quality about Jersey," Beverly Engle, the center's executive director, said. 'A little old soul, but such a delight.'

 ::snipping2::

little one who suffered so much...
where were the grandparents of this little girl? I wish I could have taken her...I would have in a heartbeat....

Girl Who Was Chained To Dresser With Dog Choke Collar Found Dead

November 22, 2012 11:06 AM

 ::snipping2::

Engle said Jersey was interviewed last year at the center when the abuse allegations were reported to police in nearby Rogers. According to a court document, the girl told officers she slept on the floor in the same room as her father, David Bridgeman, and her stepmother, Jana Bridgeman.
 
“She said that Jana and David chain her to the dresser because she had gotten up and eaten some pies, cereal, and bread,” Rogers Police Detective Larry Taylor wrote in the court affidavit.
 
He added that the girl “stated that they put a belt around her waist so that she could not get up and get any food.”

Both the father and stepmother pleaded guilty in June to false imprisonment, permitting abuse of a minor and endangering the welfare of a minor.
 
Jana Bridgeman, also identified as Jana Slinkard in court records, is serving a 12-year prison sentence, plus three years for a probation revocation, according to online Department of Correction records.
 
David Bridgeman is serving an 18-year prison sentence. Prison records show he has a tattoo that says “Jersey.”

He admitted to chaining his daughter to a dresser with a belt last year after a woman who was staying with the couple contacted police about possible child abuse, according to court records. That woman said she found the girl chained to a dresser with a silver chain and what appeared to be a dog collar.

 ::snipping2::

http://atlanta.cbslocal.com/2012/11/22/girl-who-was-chained-to-dresser-with-dog-choke-collar-found-dead/

Arkansas girl, Jersey Bridgeman case: Sex offender's home searched
Crime News
November 22, 2012

 ::snipping2::

Research conducted by the National Criminal Profiles Examiner, based upon the ABC4029 report, reveals that police searched a home that was listed on the Bentonville County Sex Offender Registry while looking for the missing girl.

In fact, the sex offender registry for the Bentonville County Sheriff's Office shows that as many as 23 sex offenders live in the Bridgeman neighborhood area, with three address on the registry listed as her direct neighbors: 702, 704 and 706 SE A Street.
 
Jersey Bridgeman's body was found hours after she was reported missing on Tuesday, in an abandoned home located at 702 SE A Street, one of the homes listed on the sex offender registry. That home is listed under the name of Joseph F. Blackmon for utility purposes according to the ABC4029 report.

 ::snipping2::


Thus the Arkansas girl was in the sole custodial care of her mother DesaRae Bridgeman at the time she went missing on Tuesday, sometime between midnight and 6:45 a.m. Yet it was a "relative" who was caring for her at the time of her disappearance on Tuesday, ABC4029 also reported that the relative resides at 608 SE A Street in Bentonville.
 
That information was expanded upon Friday by Fox when it was revealed that the child's mother says she put Jersey to bed at midnight and that she was the one to notify authorities that she was missing.

 ::snipping2::

http://www.examiner.com/article/arkansas-girl-jersey-bridgeman-case-sex-offender-s-home-searched

Bentonville Child’s Funeral Set for Tuesday
Posted on: 10:27 am, November 26, 2012

(http://localtvkfsm.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/jersey-bridgeman-home.jpg?w=225&h=300)
Jersey Bridgeman, a Bentonville 6-year-old found murdered on Nov. 20, will be laid to rest Tuesday.

Her funeral is set for 1 p.m. at the Rollins Funeral Chapel in Rogers, with burial to follow at Bentonville Cemetery.

 ::snipping2::

Last week law enforcement agencies began looking into sex offenders who live in the area where Bridgeman was found, said Bentonville Police Captain Justin Thompson. Seven Level II sex offenders are registered as living within a few miles of the crime scene. Level II means they’re at moderate risk for re-offending.

Bentonville police said Bridgeman’s mother, DesaRae, and family have been cooperative with the investigation. Family members told police they did not want to make any statement to the media.

 ::snipping2::

Officers served three search warrants on three homes the day the child was killed, including the girl’s home, the house two doors down where she was found dead, and a trailer residence between the houses. Police collected about 50 pieces of evidence during the searches, Simpson said

 ::snipping2::

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/26/bridgeman-funeral-tuesday/

Funeral services scheduled for 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman
Services to be held in Rogers; open to public
 11:01 AM CST Nov 26, 2012

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Benton County Coroner Daniel Oxford said the visitation and funeral services for 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman will be held at Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers

Oxford said the girl's body has been released from the state crime lab in Little Rock.

The services are open to the public, he said.

•Visitation: Monday 5-7 p.m.

•Funeral: Tuesday 1 p.m.

Her body will be buried at Bentonville Cemetery.

He said the preliminary cause of death report will released from the state crime lab in a few days. The full autopsy results will take 3 to 4 months, Oxford said.

Officials with the Arkansas state crime lab did not provide any information.

 ::snipping2::

http://www.4029tv.com/news/arkansas/northwest/Funeral-services-scheduled-for-6-year-old-Jersey-Bridgeman/-/8897460/17548786/-/yotcb7z/-/index.html

(http://www.4029tv.com/image/view/-/17529028/medRes/1/-/maxh/460/maxw/620/-/vkhx2fz/-/Jersey-Bridgeman-pic-jpg.jpg)
Funeral services scheduled for 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman
11:01 AM CST Nov 26, 2012

What a pretty little girl.  She looks like she was a joy.  I just don't understand how people can be so cruel.   ::crymonkey2::

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/22/fundraising-after-girls-death-leads-to-family-infighting/
Fundraising After Girl’s Death Leads To Family Infighting
Posted on: 6:22 pm, November 22, 2012, by Shain Bergan, updated on: 06:25pm, November 22, 2012

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/26/neighbor-arrested-in-connection-with-jersey-bridgemans-death/

Neighbor Arrested In Connection With Jersey Bridgeman’s Death

Posted on: 8:25 pm, November 26, 2012, by Alicia Agent and Shain Bergan, updated on: 08:41pm, November 26, 2012

Neighbor Arrested In Connection With Jersey Bridgeman’s Death

Posted on: 8:25 pm, November 26, 2012, by Alicia Agent and Shain Bergan, updated on: 08:41pm, November 26, 2012
 ::snipping2::

I saw an interview with a woman that lives in that trailer and when the reporter asked her if she lived there with her husband, she told the reporter to get off of her property.  I wondered then if that was who did this...so sad but I'm glad there has been an arrest.

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/26/neighbor-arrested-in-connection-with-jersey-bridgemans-death/

 ::snipping2::

Zachary Holly, 28, was arrested Monday in connection with the murder investigation of 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman, according to police.

He is being charged with capital murder, kidnapping and residential burglary, according to Chief Jon Simpson.

Holly lives next door to Jersey, in a trailer at 702 SE A St. Holly’s home lies between Jersey’s house and the vacant house where the girl’s body was found.

Simpson made the announcement during a news conference at the Bentonville Police Department Monday night.

Holly is being held in the Benton County Jail.

 ::snipping2::

From the video: affidavit of probable cause will be released Wednesday.

http://twitter.com/5NEWSLarry/status/273246121244114944 (http://twitter.com/5NEWSLarry/status/273246121244114944)

Larry Henry
@5NEWSLarry
Bentonville police arrest this man who lives at 702 SE A St. in Jersey Bridgeman murder investigation, chief says.
1 hour ago via Echofon

(http://c0014584.r32.cf1.rackcdn.com/x2_fc42da5)

http://twitter.com/5NEWSLarry (http://twitter.com/5NEWSLarry)

52m Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Affidavit of probable cause to be issued after Holly's bond hearing Wednesday and will include answers to questions in murder investigation.
Expand

55m Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Zachary Dewayne Holly, 28, faces capital murder, kidnapping and residential burglary charges. http://lockerz.com/s/264518974
 View photo

57m Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Zachary Dewayne Holly being held in BenCo Jail and has a bond hearing Wednesday at 1:30.
Expand

1h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
No additional arrests to be made in Jersey Bridgeman case.
Expand

1h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Man arrested in Jersey Bridgeman case is 28 years old and a family acquaintance, chief says.
Expand

1h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
BREAKING Bentonville police arrest Zachary Holley of 702 SE A St. in Jersey Bridgeman murder investigation.
Expand

1h 5NEWSONLINE ‏@5NEWS
Neighbor Arrested In Connection With Jersey Bridgeman’s Death http://on.5newsonline.com/al68bON
 Retweeted by Larry Henry
Expand

1h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Bentonville police arrest this man who lives at 702 SE A St. in Jersey Bridgeman murder investigation, chief says. http://lockerz.com/s/264514981
 View photo

2h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
BREAKING Bentonville police announce 8:30 p.m. news conference on arrest in Jersey Bridgeman murder case.
Expand

2h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
BREAKING Bentonville police make an arrest in the Jersey Bridgeman murder investigation.
Expand

11h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Jersey Bridgeman's visitation is today from 5-7 p.m. at Rollins Funeral Home in Rogers.
Expand   Reply  Retweet  Favorite

11h Larry Henry ‏@5NEWSLarry
Jersey Bridgeman funeral is Tuesday at 1 p.m. in the Rollins Funeral Chapel in Rogers, with burial to follow at Bentonville Cemetery.
Expand

 ::snipping2::

The video that I remembered watching is at this link...

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/20/police-investigate-childs-death/

Police Investigate Sex Offenders Living Near Slain Bentonville Child
Posted on: 9:22 am, November 20, 2012, by 5NEWS Web Staff, updated on: 10:24am, November 26, 2012

 ::snipping2::

When asked if she knew Jersey, the woman replied: “Pray for her family, that’s all I ask.”
5NEWS asked her if she lived there with her husband and she told our crew to get off of the property. 

 ::snipping2::

I didn't see this posted yet...Zach Holly's FB page:

https://www.facebook.com/zach.holly.5

It looks like Jersey's mom and Zach's wife became facebook friends on November 10...so, I guess they all knew one another.  So sad.  Should I post the link to the wife's FB page to show where I got this from?

https://www.facebook.com/desarae.bridgeman

DesaRae Bridgeman became friends with Amanda Jo Holly.
November 10, 2011

thanks texasmom...I wasn't sure.  Here is another: Amanda Jo Holly became friends with DesaRae Bridgeman.
April 8 (I'm guessing this year).  Maybe they fought and then made up?  Or, I guess accidentally deleted...

https://www.facebook.com/amanda.j.watkins

Zach Holly

November 16 via mobile.

I came home to a spotless house & a hot meal. Im so lucky to have a wife that still loves me. I cant believe i might still lose her over a HUGE mistake!!

http://www.facebook.com/zach.holly.5

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/posts/473612289348097

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love

about an hour ago

This is Jersey Bridgemans Mom, Thanks to the hard working detectives that put a lot of time and effort to catching the killer of my daughter. She will be in my thoughts, prayers, and memories always. My daughter is one of the lights in my life. Though her spirit may have passed and moved on her light will always burn brightly in my soul and in her sisters actions and features. Her killer was caught today (Zachary Holly) and I found out at her viewing. Hold your children tight tonight knowing that there is another evil person in this crappy world caught.
Loving and missing you always Jersey Dianne,
DesaRae

Absolutely heartbreaking the life this child had and how her life ended.    ::MonkeyNoNo::

so sad

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-57555995-504083/jersey-bridgeman-murder-suspect-zachary-holly-attacked-in-jail/

November 28, 2012 2:16 PM
Jersey Bridgeman murder suspect, Zachary Holly, attacked in jail

CBS/AP) BENTONVILLE, Ark. - Authorities in northwest Arkansas said a fellow inmate attacked accused murderer Zachary Holly on Tuesday, a day before Holly was expected in court for the slaying of 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman.

Holly, 28, was arrested Monday on capital murder, kidnapping and residential burglary charges in Jersey's death. He was due in court later Wednesday, when a judge was expected to assign him a public defender.

Holly was attacked in Benton County Jail, where an inmate managed to slip into his cell while helping hand out fresh clothes and towels, jail Capt. Chris Sparks said. He said Holly wasn't seriously injured. The inmate, who was in jail on a parole violation, could face additional charges.

"Obviously this case has gotten a lot of exposure in the media and all the inmates know what he's in for," Sparks said. "We're going to do our best to try and keep him safe, just like we do every other inmate."
 ::snipping2::

http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/11/28/15517715-neighbor-charged-with-murder-rape-of-jersey-bridgeman-6?lite

Neighbor charged with murder, rape of Jersey Bridgeman, 6
4 minutes ago

Arkansas restaurant worker Zachary Holly was charged Wednesday with the rape and murder of his next-door neighbor, 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman in Bentonville, Ark.,  NBC affiliate KARK-TV reported.
 ::snipping2::
Holly, 28, who lives next door to where Jersey was staying, was arrested Monday on charges of capital murder, kidnapping and residential burglary. Rape was added to the list of charges in court Wednesday, KARK reported. In Wednesday's hearing at the First Circuit Court in Bentonville, Ark., he was denied bond.
 
Few details were immediately released about how Jersey died or what led police to Holly, but police Chief Jon Simpson said Monday night said that after the hearing Wednesday, a probable cause affidavit would be released and "many questions related to this investigation and arrest will be answered."
 ::snipping2::

Video at link

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/27/jersey-bridgeman-laid-to-rest-in-bentonville/

Jersey Bridgeman Laid to Rest in Bentonville
Posted on: 4:56 pm, November 27, 2012, by Alicia Agent and Allison Woods, updated on: 05:16pm, November 27, 2012

Rest in Peace, Jersey  ::MonkeyAngel::
(http://localtvkfsm.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/jerseys-funeral-program.jpg?w=225&h=300)

It was an emotional day for friends and family of 6 year-old Jersey Bridgeman, as well as the community as the young girl was laid to rest Tuesday.
 
Jersey’s funeral was held at Rollins Chapel in Rogers.
 
Those attending wore purple, the girl’s favorite color in remembrance of her short life.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.ksro.com/news/article.aspx?id=3757977

11/28/2012 2:20 PM
Police: Slain Ark. girl was suffocated, raped

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (AP) — A 6-year-old Arkansas girl found dead in a vacant home was suffocated and apparently raped, authorities said in a court document released Wednesday.

Sperm cells were detected on a vaginal swab taken from Jersey Bridgeman's body, Bentonville police said in the document. Authorities also said Jersey died of asphyxia, or lack of oxygen.

Zachary Holly, a 28-year-old neighbor accused of killing Jersey, appeared in court Wednesday for the first time since his arrest. Holly appeared to be shaking during the hearing, where it emerged that he also faces a rape charge, in addition to capital murder, kidnapping and residential burglary charges.

Judge Robin Green assigned a public defender to represent Holly and ordered him held without bond. Formal charges will be filed sometime before his next court date, scheduled for Jan. 7.
 ::snipping2::

At least 1 thing was much simpler in the wild west days.  Justice....it wasn't a game to be beaten in court and it wasn't soft with state of the art prisons.

Neighbor charged with murder, rape of Jersey Bridgeman, 6
4:45PM,11/28/2012

Jersey's death came just months after a high-profile child abuse case in which her father and stepmother, David Bridgeman and Jana Bridgeman, convicted of chaining the girl to a dresser at night. Jana Bridgeman is serving a 12-year prison sentence, plus three years for a probation revocation. David Bridgeman is serving an 18-year prison sentence.
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jersey had since moved in with her mother, DesaRae Bridgeman, and began kindergarten this fall in Bentonville, about 215 miles northwest of Little Rock. They lived next door to Zachary Holly, 28, and his wife Amanda, friends of the family who frequently babysat Jersey and her 2-year-old sister, as they did on Nov. 19, according to interviews described in the affidavit of probable cause released Wednesday.
 ::snipping2::

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/28/wife-releases-statement-following-zachary-hollys-murder-arrest/

Wife Releases Statement Following Zachary Holly’s Murder Arrest
Posted on: 11:18 am, November 28, 2012, by Alicia Agent

Amanda Holly, the wife of accused child killer Zachary Holly, asked for privacy for her family Wednesday as the homicide investigation into the death of 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman unfolds.

Joshua S. Bryant, a Rogers attorney who represents the family of Amanda Holly, released the following statement on her behalf:

“We are deeply saddened by the death of Jersey Bridgeman. Although we know that there are no words of sympathy that will make the pain of Jersey’s death subside, we wish to express our deepest sympathy and condolences to Jersey’s family. We are praying for healing for Jersey’s family and for justice to be done.

Jersey was a very sweet girl who our children and grandchildren considered their best friend. Because of this, we ask for privacy. The children in our family are not dealing well with the loss of their friend. While we feel certain a degree of familiarity is essential for their well-being, we also need time alone to mourn, seek answers to a great many questions, and heal.”

The attorney said this is the only statement the family will make.

 ::snipping2::

New court documents say 6 year old Bentonville girl was suffocated and raped
Six year old Jersey Bridgeman's body was found in a vacant house

8:50 p.m. CST, November 28, 2012

Arkansas authorities say a six year old Bentonville girl found dead in a vacant home was suffocated and apparently had been raped.

Court documents released today show that sperm cells were detected on a vaginal swab taken from Jersey Bridgeman's body.

Edit to add link per Northern Rose.  MB
http://www.kspr.com/news/kspr-new-court-documents-say-6-year-old-bentonville-girl-was-suffocated-and-raped-20121128,0,5596587.story

forgot link  http://www.kspr.com/news/kspr-new-court-documents-say-6-year-old-bentonville-girl-was-suffocated-and-raped-20121128,0,5596587.story

Zachary Holly Faces First Court Date
Updated: November 29, 2012

 ::snipping2::

Zachary Holly only said two words in open court: "Yes ma'am" after Judge Green issued a no-contact order between him and the Bridgeman family. The judge also ordered Holly be held without bond. We now know much more about why holly was arrested. According to the probable cause affidavit, on Monday night of last week, Zach Holly and his wife, Amanda, were baby-sitting jersey and her little sister while their mom was at work. Desarae Bridgeman picked up her kids at 11:00 p.m. They were asleep, so Holly carried Jersey home while Desarae carried her other little girl. Holly told investigators he went back home and woke up with an upset stomach around 3:30 that morning so he walked to the EZ Mart to get medicine and went back home. He denied having anything to do with Jersey's disappearance and provided DNA to investigators. This week, the state medical examiner's office revealed it found DNA on the girl's body, but the portion of the affidavit released to the media does not specify if that DNA matched Holly's. It does say that police then brought him in for questioning and he was arrested after he gave a statement to investigators.

 ::snipping2::

http://nwahomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=386192

Court Document says 6-Year Old Arkansas Girl Died of Asphyxiation
Updated: November 29, 2012

 ::snipping2::

Investigators say the girl was found dead in the closet of an abandoned mobile home, two houses down from where she lived

 ::snipping2::

Holly's wife sat in the back of the courtroom. Jersey's mother sat in the front row opposite of Holly. Friends and family both crying during the hearing.

"I never could imagine Holly would do this but sometimes you don't know people and I've learned something from this, you got to be careful who you trust and I'm definitely thinking about moving."  April Reed, best friend of Holly's wife

Holly was arrested Monday night in connection with the murder. He is being held at the Benton County Jail.

http://ozarksfirst.com/fulltext?nxd_id=734892

Neighbors in shock over Jersey Bridgeman's murder and Holly's arrest
 UPDATED 5:21 PM CST Nov 29, 2012


BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Since Jersey Bridgeman's body was found inside an abandoned house near A and 7th Streets, the neighbors are reeling.


Parents said children were not playing outside they way they used to in days past.

Instead, there are numerous passers-by. They bring traffic to a stand still to take pictures of the homes involved in the murder investigation and the suspect, Zach Holly.

Many neighbors have been talking of Zachary Holly's behavior on the day Jersey's body was found, Nov. 20.

"He was pretty bad that day," said Julie Pickard, Holly's neighbor.

In response to questions if there were  signs that Holly may have had something to do with the crime, Pickard said, "..to me---that never struck my mind."

There was video of Holly near the crime scene show which aired on 40/29 News. "He was in every picture I seen on the news," said Pickard.


For most of the morning, she said Holly was visibly shaken and very upset.

Neighbors also said Amanda Holly was close to Jersey's mother, DesaRae Bridgeman.

"I knew DesaRae and Amanda were really good friends," said Lopez.

 ::snipping2::

http://www.4029tv.com/news/arkansas/northwest/Neighbors-in-shock-over-Jersey-Bridgeman-s-murder-and-Holly-s-arrest/-/8897460/17597216/-/5pe9mj/-/index.html

Read the PDF version of the Affadavit of Probable Cause report details in the case of the murder of Jersey Bridgeman

http://www.4029tv.com/blob/view/-/17599484/data/2/-/s49b81z/-/Probably-cause-report-jersey-bridgeman-murder-zachary-holly.pdf

http://youtu.be/bv1R5YzeIwc

Published on Nov 29, 2012 by 4029tv

40/29 speaks exclusively to Jersey's father, David Bridgeman. Bridgeman talks of guilt and regret about chaining Jersey to a dresser. He speaks out for the first time about her death and accused killer Zachary Holly.

http://youtu.be/J0QTEL4IBRo

Published on Nov 29, 2012 by 4029tv
David Bridgeman speaks exclusively to 40/29 John Paul about the death of his daughter.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=4942002270928&set=o.471876366188356&type=1&ref=nf

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=492499707451547&set=o.471876366188356&type=1&permPage=1

April 2011

 :cry:

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=478223865553606&set=a.471880212854638.106172.471876366188356&type=1&relevant_count=1&ref=nf


Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
Christmas 2011....We miss you Jersey
Like ·  · Share · 2 hours ago

 ::crymonkey2::

sad beyond words for Jersey..sorry for what happened to such a sweet innocent girl..

Thankfully, even criminals have certain moral codes.  Just like Jersey's last night on this earth, they will make sure he doesn't get a restful night's sleep for the rest of his life. 

^^^^^ I like your thinking Kittymom

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=483967861645873&set=a.472965352746124.106388.471876366188356&type=1

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
Her picture will go on soon
14 hours ago

 ::MonkeyAngel::

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/01/03/formal-charges-filed-in-murder-arkansas-girl-6/
Formal charges filed in murder of Arkansas girl, 6
January 3, 2013

LITTLE ROCK, ARK. –  A prosecutor filed formal charges this week against an Arkansas man accused of raping and killing his 6-year-old neighbor who had been a victim in a prior abuse case.

Prosecutor Van Stone filed paperwork Wednesday charging Zachary Holly, 28, with capital murder, kidnapping, rape and residential burglary in the disappearance and death of 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman.

The formal charges come days before Holly is due in court Monday for an arraignment.
 ::snipping2::
Authorities arrested Holly several days after Jersey was found dead on Nov. 20 in a vacant home next to Holly's in Bentonville, a community about 215 miles northwest of Little Rock that is best known as the home of Wal-Mart's headquarters.

In the charging paperwork filed Wednesday, prosecutors said Holly restrained the girl "with the purpose of engaging in sexual intercourse, deviate sexual activity, or sexual contact with Jersey Bridgeman..." Authorities have said the child was suffocated.
More...

(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo242/Brandi-Monkey/JSM-Chat/winter-prayer.gif)

http://nwahomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=394842

Jersey Bridgeman's Accused Killer Due in Court
Updated: January 6, 2013

A man accused of murdering a 6-year-old Bentonville girl is due in court tomorrow for his arraignment, after charges were formally filed last week against 28-year-old Zachary Holly.
 ::snipping2::
Holly's arraignment is set for this Monday.

We will have a live report from the courthouse Monday on KNWA Today as well as continuing team coverage throughout the day.
 ::snipping2::

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove

Sweet little angel.  No one can hurt her anymore.   ::MonkeyAngel::

 ::MonkeyAngel::

http://www.4029tv.com/news/arkansas/jersey-bridgeman-extended-coverage/Zachary-Holly-pleads-not-guilty/-/18000356/18033654/-/13r321s/-/index.html

Zachary Holly pleads not guilty
UPDATED 11:51 AM CST Jan 07, 2013

Zachary Holly's entered a not guilty plea  to all charges at his arraignment Monday before Judge Robin Green.

Holly appeared Benton County Court and faces rape, capital murder, kidnapping and residential burglary charges. He is accused of murdering 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman, who was found dead in a vacant home next door to Holly's home.
 
Holly's 'not guilty' plea to capital murder charges means he will face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Read more...

 ::MonkeyHang::

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=497842300258429&set=a.497842283591764.110645.471876366188356&type=1

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love


Jersey's picture is on her headstone now.

From the comments, it is her school picture.  I think maybe the same one in this photo.

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=101047927


Hugs from here to heaven for this precious little angel!   ::MonkeyAngel::

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/11/29/article-2240177-16426218000005DC-415_634x738.jpg)

WOW.  He's a shrimp.  The inmates will turn him into a plaything in no time.  Enjoy what's left of your pathetic life, punk.   ::MonkeyMad::

http://5newsonline.com/2012/11/28/suspected-child-killers-attack-in-jail-not-expected-to-affect-hearing/
Suspected Child Killer Attacked in Jail
Posted on: 9:27 am, November 28, 2012, by 5NEWS Web Staff, updated on: 02:13pm, November 28, 2012
(http://localtvkfsm.files.wordpress.com/2012/11/zachary-holly-and-michael-moran.jpg?w=400)
Zachary Holly and Michael Moran
hmm...amazing the timing of the deputy turning away.  Can't say I wouldn't have done the same.  I'll bet Moran has a daughter or niece that Jersey reminds him of.

Never thought that I would be giving a criminal a high 5 but....high 5 Moran...hope you get another shot at the pervert.

http://5newsonline.com/2013/01/22/wife-of-jersey-bridgemans-accused-killer-files-protection-order/

Wife Of Jersey Bridgeman’s Accused Killer Files Protection Order
Posted on: 5:57 pm, January 22, 2013, by Shain Bergan and Scott Miller, updated on: 10:27pm, January 22, 2013

The wife of Jersey Bridgeman’s accused murderer has filed an order of protection against Zachary Holly, after she says he continually called her from jail, according to court documents.
 
In one three day span last week, Holly called his wife Amanda 33 times. She did not answer his calls and considers the calls as threatening, according to the protection order.
 
Amanda Holly filed the protection order Jan. 16 with the Benton County Circuit Clerk’s Office. Her six-year-old son is also listed on the order.
 
If Zachary Holly continues to try to contact his wife, he may face misdemeanor violation of a protection order charges, which could bring a year in jail and/or a $2,500 fine, according to the Circuit Clerk’s paperwork.
 
“Since his arrest, he has continued to call me multiple times a day. His family has contacted on a few occasions on his behalf,” Amanda Holly states in the protection order. “I have told him I want him to leave my son and I alone, that we want nothing to do with him. He is still continuing. I have received seven letters from him stating how much he loves and misses my son. I want it to stop.”
 ::snipping2::

http://5newsonline.com/2013/01/24/zach-hollys-attorneys-say-he-may-not-be-fit-for-trial/

Zachary Holly’s Attorneys Say He May Not Be Fit For Trial
Posted on: 4:26 pm, January 24, 2013, by Shain Bergan, updated on: 10:31pm, January 24, 2013

Attorneys for the suspect accused of killing six-year-old Bentonville girl Jersey Bridgeman are seeking a mental evaluation for Zachary Holly, saying he may not be fit to stand trial, according to Benton County court records.
 
Holly’s lawyers filed a motion Jan. 17 seeking a mental evaluation for their client, saying Holly may not be fit to stand trial. The motion also states that Holly’s mental status may affect the case, records show.
 
Holly remains in the Benton County Jail on suspicion of capital murder, kidnapping, rape and burglary.
 
He has a pre-trial hearing in Benton County Circuit Court set for Feb. 28.

Holly pleaded not guilty at his Jan. 7 arraignment to killing, kidnapping and raping Jersey. Benton County Prosecutor Van Stone said he will seek the death penalty against Holly in the case.
 
Benton County Circuit Judge Robin Green gave Holly a pre-trial court date of Feb. 28 in Division 2, where he will appear before Judge Brad Karren. That hearing is set to begin at 8:30 a.m.
 ::snipping2::

http://www.4029tv.com/news/arkansas/northwest/Legal-experts-weigh-in-on-latest-motion-filed-for-Zachary-Holly/-/8897460/18273822/-/l6mo0rz/-/index.html

Legal experts weigh in on latest motion filed for Zachary Holly
Published  10:54 PM CST Jan 24, 2013

 ::snipping2::
Dodson said the mental evaluation aims to find out two things: whether Holly understands what he's been accused of and if he's able to help with his own defense.
 
"If the defendant can't do either one of those then they're not competent to stand trial. If you don't understand what you've done, you're not competent to stand trial. If you do theoretically understand what you've done, but you can't assist in your own defense, well you're not competent to stand trial,"said Dodson.
 
According to court documents, if the motion is granted, Holly will go to the state hospital for 30 days.
 
"They check for to see if there's different things wrong. They check to see if someone's trying to be deceptive. You can't just go to the state hospital and act like there's something wrong with you, they have ways, the test is designed to find that," said Dodson.
 
The judge in this case has not heard this motion yet.

http://5newsonline.com/2013/02/12/suspected-child-killer-to-undergo-mental-evaluation/

Accused Child Killer To Undergo Mental Evaluation
Posted on: 6:53 pm, February 12, 2013, by Larry Henry, updated on: 06:55pm, February 12, 2013

Zachary Holly, charged with raping and killing six-year-old Bentonville girl Jersey Bridgeman, has been ordered to undergo an evaluation to determine if he is mentally competent to stand trial, said Van Stone, Benton County prosecuting attorney.
 
The forensic evaluation, ordered by Circuit Judge Brad Karren, is to be conducted at the Arkansas State Hospital in Little Rock, Stone said.
 
The motion was made at the request of his defense attorneys, Kent McLemore and Pat Ayedelott, the prosecuting attorney said.
 
In addition to determining whether Holly is mentally competent to stand trial, the evaluation also will “determine if he was able to appreciate the criminality of his alleged conduct at the time of the offense,” Stone said.
 
“That type of evaluation is standard in any death penalty case,” Stone said Tuesday (Feb. 12).
 
While the evaluation could delay future court proceedings, the law states motions that don’t require a defendant’s personal participation still can be heard by the court, Stone said.
 
That means Holly’s Feb. 28 pre-trial omnibus hearing, which does not require his participation on some motions, could be heard as scheduled, Stone said.
 
“However, the judge has the discretion to wait until the State Hospital report is back, and I suspect that is what will happen here, given the seriousness of the case,” Stone said.
 ::snipping2::

Of course he is a mental case.  No rational person would consider doing such a thing.
I believe he knows the difference between right and wrong and thus should stand trial.
JMO

bbm ^^^  ::rhino::
 

http://5newsonline.com/2013/03/21/mental-evaluation-for-accused-killer-of-jersey-bridgeman-set-for-april/

Jersey Bridgeman’s Accused Killer Gets April Mental Evaluation
Posted on: 2:54 pm, March 21, 2013,  updated on: 03:01pm, March 21, 2013

The Bentonville man accused of raping and killing six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman has a mental evaluation set for next month, after his attorneys said the suspected killer is unfit to stand trial.

Benton County Circuit Judge Brad Karren granted the defense’s motion in February for Zachary Holly to undergo a mental evaluation at the Arkansas State Hospital. The evaluation was set this week for April 9, said Van Stone, Benton County prosecutor.

Stone’s office will receive the report from the evaluation a few weeks later, after which a court hearing will be set to determine whether Holly will stand trial.
 ::snipping2::

 ::rhino::

http://5newsonline.com/2013/05/15/jersey-bridgemans-accused-killer-gets-mental-status-hearing/

Jersey Bridgeman’s Accused Killer Gets Mental Status Hearing
Posted on: 2:55 pm, May 15, 2013

The results of a mental evaluation to determine whether the Bentonville man accused of raping and killing six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman can competently stand trial are in court custody and have been sealed by a Benton County judge.

Zachary Holly’s attorneys claimed earlier this year that the accused killer was unfit to stand trial, leading Circuit Judge Brad Karren to delay the murder case and grant the defense team a mental evaluation in February for Holly. The evaluation took place last month, according to Benton County Circuit Clerk records.

Karren’s office has received the mental evaluation’s results, but the judge sealed the report, according to Circuit Clerk records.

Karren has set a mental status hearing for 8:30 a.m. on May 29, according to the Circuit Clerk’s Office.
 ::snipping3::

I stand by what I said.
 ::justice2nj2::

I stand with ya!

http://5newsonline.com/2013/05/29/accused-child-killer-ordered-second-mental-evaluation/

Accused Child Killer Gets Second Mental Evaluation
Posted on: 9:02 am, May 29, 2013, by Leah Seiter, updated on: 10:50am, May 29, 2013

Accused child killer Zachary Holly has been approved for a second mental evaluation, with this one to be conducted next month by a Fort Smith psychologist.

Holly appeared before Judge Brad Karren on Wednesday (May 29) in Benton County Circuit, where defense attorneys were granted a second mental evaluation.

Dr. Patty Walz of Consulting Psychology Western Arkansas is to evaluate Holly on June 21, the judge said. A mental status hearing is set for July 25 at 8:30 a.m. The results from the second evaluation will remain under seal. Holly’s first mental evaluation from earlier this year also is under seal.

That first mental evaluation was conducted at the Arkansas State Hospital in Little Rock in April, according to court documents, after Holly’s lawyer claimed he wasn’t mentally fit to stand trial.

Holly’s lawyer, Pat Aydelott, said he thinks the second mental evaluation will go in Holly’s favor.

Holly’s wife was at the court on Wednesday as the defense lawyers waited to see if their request for a second evaluation would be approved.

“No comment,” she said to 5NEWS. “I have nothing to say to you guys.”
 ::snipping3::

http://5newsonline.com/2013/06/21/jersey-bridgemans-accused-killer-mentally-evaluated-2/

Jersey Bridgeman’s Accused Killer Mentally Evaluated
Posted on: 7:08 pm, June 21, 2013

The Bentonville man accused of killing six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman received a second mental evaluation Friday, to determine whether the suspect is mentally fit to stand trial.

Zachary Holly was evaluated by Dr. Patty Walz of Consulting Psychology Western Arkansas. The results of the evaluation, along with a previous mental evaluation from April, will remain under seal.

A mental status hearing in Benton County Circuit Court to determine Holly’s mental competency to stand trial is set for July 25 at 8:30 a.m. in Judge Brad Karren’s courtroom, according to court documents.
 ::snipping3::

 ::MonkeyNoNo::

http://www.sfgate.com/news/crime/article/Hearing-postponed-for-suspect-in-Ark-girl-s-death-4684748.php

Hearing postponed for suspect in Ark. girl's death 
Published 2:23 pm, Wednesday, July 24, 2013

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (AP) — A judge has rescheduled a mental evaluation status hearing for an Arkansas man charged with killing his 6-year-old neighbor.

Zachary Holly was scheduled to appear in court Thursday, but a judge this week pushed that hearing back to Aug. 30.

A court order filed Tuesday says a mental evaluation report about Holly isn't finished yet.
 ::snipping3::

good grief!
 ::MonkeyEek::

http://**/news/2013/aug/30/holly-stand-trial-death-bentonville-girl/?latest

Holly To Stand Trial for Death Of Bentonville Girl
Posted: August 30, 2013 at 12:32 p.m.

BENTONVILLE — Zachary Holly will stand trial April 15 for the murder of 6-year-old Jersey Bridgeman after mental health experts deemed him fit to proceed to trial.

Holly, 28, appeared before Judge Brad Karren today for a mental status hearing wearing gray slacks and a tie. Police officers in bullet-proof vests escorted Holly into the courtroom.

The Arkansas State Hospital conducted intelligence testing and an evaluation to determine if Holly understood right from wrong. The defense team had additional testing done by its own expert. The results of the tests are under seal, but defense lawyers and prosecutors said the evaluations determined Holly is fit to stand trial.

“We’re prepared to announce he is fit to proceed to trial,” said Madison Aydelott III, Holly’s attorney.

In addition to the trial date, a pretrial hearing was set for Feb. 14. Prosecutors have said they intend to seek the death penalty.
 ::snipping3::

http://5newsonline.com/2013/08/30/man-accused-in-six-year-olds-death-found-mentally-competent-for-trial/

Man Accused in Six-Year-Old’s Death Found Mentally Competent for Trial
Posted on: 10:27 am, August 30, 2013, by Katie Kormann, updated on: 12:18pm, August 30, 2013

A judge found Zachary Holly, the man charged with capital murder in the death of six-year-old Bentonville girl, was found mentally competent fit to stand trial Friday (Aug. 30).

Holly will appear in court on Nov. 15 for a motion hearing. The state’s attorney says it is in the best interest of both parties involved to take the time to prepare the case. Holly’s jury trial is set to begin April 15 of next year.
 ::snipping3::
Holly remains in the Benton County Jail, also charged with kidnapping, rape and burglary in connection with the Bentonville girl`s death.

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/posts/628979397144718

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
October 31

Dear sweet Jersey,
This would have been your 6th Halloween today. I'm keeping your sister close to me so I don't break down in tears. What would you have been this year? It would have been fun making your costume like we are your sisters. I'm hurting so bad because I don't have you here on earth with me. But rejoicing all at the same time because you are in heaven with our Father. So fly for me my angel and smile down as we take your sister out tonight. Keep us safe.
Love Always,
Your Momma

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/posts/629839053725419

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
2 hours ago

I love you my angel! I can't hardly breath sometimes. This pain can be overwhelming. I will see you again!

(https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1450911_629838917058766_1355701620_n.jpg)

(https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/484734_629838980392093_5082175_n.jpg)

(https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/1450942_629839017058756_1994757407_n.jpg)

http://5newsonline.com/2013/11/14/accused-child-killers-court-date-to-be-reset/

Accused Child Killer’s Court Date To Be Reset
Posted on: 10:18 am, November 14, 2013, by Larry Henry, updated on: 04:20pm, November 14, 2013

A scheduled court hearing on Friday (Nov. 15) for accused child killer Zachary Holly will be rescheduled because his defense lawyers have “an unavoidable scheduling conflict,” said Van Stone, Benton County prosecuting attorney.

A new date for the motions hearing has not been set, but that delay will not require Holly’s scheduled trial date on April 15 to be reset, Stone said.
 ::snipping3::

http://5newsonline.com/2013/11/20/community-remembers-6-year-old-jersey-bridgeman/

1 Year Later, Community Remembers 6-Year Old Jersey Bridgeman

Posted on: 3:44 pm, November 20, 2013, by Jocelyne Pruna, updated on: 08:00pm, November 20, 2013

On the one-year anniversary of the death of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Benton County (CAC) organized a balloon launch to honor the Bentonville girl, as well as other children who died from abuse Wednesday (Nov. 20).

 ::snipping3::

Jersey has a statue with her name on it in the Memory Garden at the CAC. She would have been seven years old last week.

“We’ll never forget her and just how comfortable she was here, full of life,” said Natalie Tibbs, assistant director for the center.

People who attended tied blue ribbons around their wrists and held balloons. Blue represents child abuse awareness.

“For not only Jersey’s family, but for all of the other children that have died in Benton County since our opening, that we’re not going to forget them,” Tibbs said.

Jersey’s mom Desiree was present along with family and friends. They brought several purple balloons, Jersey’s favorite color. Balloons were then released to honor the six year old and other little ones who died from abuse.

Bentonville Police Chief Jon Simpson said he wouldn’t have missed the ceremony.

“I think it’s one for myself and all the investigators and all the other agencies that helped us, including the Sheriff’s Office and the FBI,” Simpson said. “I think it has definitely made it’s mark.”

Simpson said police are preparing for the murder case against Holly, set to go to trial in April.

“I think the best thing that we can do to remember her is just to continue the vigilance that we have specifically against child abuse,” Simpson said.

 ::snipping3::

http://5newsonline.com/2013/11/20/police-man-arrested-after-exposing-sexual-partner-to-hiv/

Facebook Links Suspected Child Killer To HIV-Crime Suspect

(http://localtvkfsm.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/holly-and-blackmon-mashup.jpg?w=316)

Posted on: 4:42 pm, November 20, 2013, by Shain Bergan, updated on: 07:45pm, November 21, 2013

A link between the Facebook profiles of an accused child killer and a man suspected of unlawfully spreading HIV implies the two may be brothers.

Joseph Frank Blackmon, the Bentonville man arrested last month in an HIV crime case, lists on his Facebook page a Joe Blackmon of Bakersfield, Calif., as his father.

Meanwhile, on his own Facebook page, the Joe Blackmon in California lists Jersey Bridgeman’s accused killer, Zachary Holly, as his son.

Implications from the Facebook references that the two are brothers could not be immediately confirmed.

The 48-year-old Joe Blackmon is also listed as a sex offender in Bakersfield, Calif., the same city Joseph Blackmon and Holly list as their hometown on Facebook. Joe Blackmon’s name also appeared on the utility bill at the Bentonville house where Holly was arrested last year in the Bridgeman murder investigation, records show.

Holly and Joseph Blackmon remain in the Benton County Jail following their arrests. Holly faces charges of rape and capital murder of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman, a Bentonville girl found dead in an abandoned house near her home last November. He is being held without bond and has a trial set for April.

Blackmon was arrested Oct. 9, but remains in jail on $40,000 bond, according to the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. He faces charges of exposing another person to human immunodeficiency virus, public sexual indecency, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Police said Blackmon was caught having sex with another man in a Cave Springs cul-de-sac, after which it was allegedly revealed Blackmon has HIV and did not tell his sexual partner. An officer also found methamphetamine on Blackmon during the incident, police said.

Police said a Cave Springs officer caught Blackmon and another man likely engaging in sex acts in a parked car in a local cul-de-sac. After talking with the officer, Blackmon pulled methamphetamine out of his sock and gave it to the officer, while telling him his sexual partner did not know he was HIV-positive, according to a probable cause affidavit filed in Benton County Circuit Court.

Blackmon allegedly told police he and the other man had sex in the vehicle and that they were in a relationship. The suspect said he found out he was HIV-positive last year from the California Health Department in Bakersfield, Calif.

 ::snipping3::

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/posts/641865009189490

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
Opened up the paper this morning to look at the Holiday ads and there was Jersey on the front page. After recovering from the outburst of tears, as I was caught off guard, I began to read. There is so much to say, but as the paper stated, the ones closest to her have disappeared from the spotlight. Indeed we have except for our letters and messages to Jersey here on her page or the occasional support for Child Abuse Awareness. The reason we are doing this is because it is in the best interest of the trial. There will be a time to speak and our voices will be heard once the trial is over. Please continue to pray as you all have been for all those involved. All families members, Benton County Police Dept, Prosecuting Attorney Team, judge, and the jury members yet to be chosen. Trial is April 15th, 2014. We have a ways to go. Standing on our love for Jersey and our love for each other. Thank You all so very much. Every post and comment shows the love you have for her and all children. Please, let your voices be heard.
Jersey's Family
2 hours ago

 ::MonkeyTears::

http://www.4029tv.com/news/arkansas/northwest/zach-hollys-appeal-to-remove-death-penalty-denied/24221580?utm_campaign=4029news&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=dlvr.it

Zach Holly's appeal to remove death penalty denied
UPDATED 5:52 PM CST Jan 31, 2014

BENTONVILLE, Ark. —Judge Karren denied a motion from Zachary Holly's defense attorneys request for the death penalty to be taken off the table in Holly's murder trial. Holly's defense team called the penalty "cruel and unconstitutional."

Prosecutors said they will continue to seek the death penalty.

In August 2013, Holly was found fit to stand trial for the murder of Jersey Bridgeman after undergoing a mental evaluation.

Holly's trial is scheduled for July 29 at 8:30 a.m. The defense has requested more time to get DHS records from California.
 ::snipping3::
Holly has pleaded not guilty to charges of capital murder, kidnapping, rape and residential burglary.

The young girl's death ended a short life marred by abuse. Her father and stepmother were sentenced to prison after being convicted of chaining her to a dresser in 2011.

http://**/news/2014/feb/01/hollys-murder-trial-postponed/

Holly’s Murder Trial Postponed
Posted: February 1, 2014 at 5 a.m.

 ::snipping3::
Possible Sentences

Zachary Holly of Bentonville could be sentenced to life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty if convicted of capital murder.

• Prosecutors will seek the death penalty.

• He faces from 10 to 40 years or life imprisonment if convicted of kidnapping.

• The punishment for rape is 25 to 40 years or life imprisonment if convicted.

• A conviction for residential burglary carries a prison sentence ranging from five to 20 years.

Source: Staff Report
 ::snipping3::

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/photos/a.472965352746124.106388.471876366188356/679539498755374/?type=1&theater

(https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/v/t34/1608815_749136211764855_203800528_n.jpg?oh=58ef54b9ea7ad1955cddf40cb77b6c25&oe=5304DFA8)

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
January 25 · Edited ·

This is our 2nd Feburary without your earthly presence. Seems like only yesterday you were here filling that space on earth that only you could do. We still find ourselves including you in plans only in an instant to realize that you are not here. All of us sometime or another have that stab of realization that cuts like a knife in a wound that has not healed. Yes we smile and laugh which I am sure you enjoy the sound of from your new home in heaven. Many times when my mind is drowning in that dark place of pain due to how you left us I try to remember that you are looking down and would want us to focus on the happy times as much as we can. We still wait for Justice to be served. Waiting makes it even more difficult to continue on. Not being able to give you the gift of peace in our hearts that I'm sure you long for. But you see the bigger picture. God, you, and those that you are now surrounded with above us. I focus on how you must feel at this moment. The thought of it lights up my entire being. Free from a world that struggles with choas and hurt caused by others. A world that searches for even a tiny bit of the Love and Light you bask in. Sweet sweet girl we can't wait to see you again when it is our time. Much Love - MeMaw
— at Bentonville Cemetery.

(http://i380.photobucket.com/albums/oo242/Brandi-Monkey/WEATHER/Image174.png)

http://5newsonline.com/2014/07/28/acused-child-killers-trial-date-set-in-benton-county/ (http://5newsonline.com/2014/07/28/acused-child-killers-trial-date-set-in-benton-county/)

Accused Child Killer’s Trial Date Set In Benton County
Posted 6:25 pm, July 28, 2014, by Larry Henry, Updated at 09:04pm, July 28, 2014

BENTONVILLE (KFSM) – A November trial date is set for accused child killer Zachary Holly, officials said Monday (July 28).

Holly, charged with capital murder in the 2012 killing of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman in Bentonville, is set to go to trial on Nov. 4 in Benton County Circuit Court, according to the Benton County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

A pre-trial hearing is set for Friday (Aug. 1) before Circuit Judge Brad Karren, records show.

The case has gone through several delays and mental status hearings since Holly was arrested in November 2012 on suspicion of capital murder, kidnapping, rape and residential burglary. The suspect was declared fit for trial following two mental evaluations.

Karren has denied a motion by the defense attorneys to prevent Holly from being executed if he is found guilty.
 ::snipping3::

   

I really don't know how the loved ones endure all the postponements.
My heart aches for them.

 ::MonkeyTears::

It is so sad.  ::MonkeyTears::

http://5newsonline.com/2014/08/01/zach-holly-appears-in-court-for-supression-hearing/

Zach Holly Appears In Court For Supression Hearing
Posted 1:33 pm, August 1, 2014

Zachary Holly appeared at the Benton County Circuit Court annex in handcuffs wearing civilian clothes before 10 a.m. Friday (Aug 1). Holly’s attorney Madison Aydelott said he wants the judge to dismiss statements his client made to investigators.

Holly is charged with rape and capital murder in the 2012 killing of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman in Bentonville.

The suppression hearing before circuit judge Brad Karen started around 10 a.m. and they took a break at noon.

During the first part of the hearing, three investigators were asked to take the stand. Both prosecutor Nathan Smith and defense attorney Aydelott took turns questioning them.
 ::snipping3::

 ::justice2nj2::

http://**/news/2014/aug/01/prosecutors-will-be-able-hollys-statements-against/?latest

Prosecutors will be able to use Holly's statements against him
Posted: August 1, 2014 at 4:41 p.m.

BENTONVILLE — Prosecutors will be able to use Zachary Holly's confession as evidence against him during his November murder trial.
 ::snipping3::

 ::justice2nj2::

http://5newsonline.com/2014/10/27/murder-trial-set-to-start-next-week-for-accused-child-killer-zachary-holly/

Murder Trial Set To Start Next Week For Accused Child Killer Zachary Holly
Posted 4:04 pm, October 27, 2014, by Larry Henry, Updated at 05:52pm, October 27, 2014   

BENTONVILLE (KFSM) – The murder trial for accused child killer Zachary Holly is set to begin next week as scheduled, the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office said Monday (Oct. 27).

Jury selection is on track to begin Monday (Nov. 3) in Benton County Circuit Court in Holly’s capital murder trial, according to Nathan Smith, deputy prosecuting attorney. A pre-trial hearing was scheduled for Monday (Oct. 27) to prepare for the murder trial next week.

Holly is charged with capital murder in the 2012 killing of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman in Bentonville.

The case has gone through several delays and mental status hearings since Holly was arrested in November 2012 on suspicion of capital murder, kidnapping, rape and residential burglary. The suspect was declared fit for trial following two mental evaluations.

At his Jan. 7, 2013, arraignment, Holly pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty against Holly in the case.
 ::snipping3::

My heart goes out to Jersey's family with yet another delay.  ::MonkeyNoNo:: ::MonkeyMad::

http://5newsonline.com/2014/10/31/accused-child-killers-trial-delayed-after-public-defender-admits-to-drinking-problem/

Accused Child Killer’s Trial Delayed After Public Defender Admits To Drinking Problem

POSTED 10:11 PM, OCTOBER 31, 2014, BY LARRY HENRY, UPDATED AT 08:46AM, NOVEMBER 1, 2014

BENTONVILLE (KFSM) – The murder trial for accused child killer Zachary Holly is being rescheduled after the public defender admitted in court on Friday (Oct. 31) that he has an alcohol problem, officials said.

The trial had been set to begin on Monday (Nov. 3) in Benton County Circuit Judge Brad Karren’s courtroom.

However, the defense team sought and received a postponement from Karren at a pre-trial hearing on Friday, saying that Pat Aydelott, the public defender handling the trial portion of the murder case, has a drinking problem, officials said.

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Nathan Smith said he and the victim’s family are “very frustrated” by another delay in the trial. Holly is charged with capital murder in the 2012 killing of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman in Bentonville.

Smith said his office and the victim’s family were ready to proceed on Monday, adding his office didn’t learn of Aydelott’s issues until Friday afternoon. Smith said the judge didn’t have much choice but to delay the trial after the public defender admitted to being ineffective because of alcoholism.

A court hearing has been scheduled for Nov. 6  for an update on which public defender will replace Aydelott and to learn when a new trial date will be set, Smith said.

The case has gone through several delays and mental status hearings since Holly was arrested in November 2012 on suspicion of capital murder, kidnapping, rape and residential burglary. The suspect was declared fit for trial following two mental evaluations.

Smith has told 5NEWS he will seek the death penalty against Holly in the case.

 ::snipping3::

 ::MonkeyNoNo::

http://5newsonline.com/2014/11/06/accused-benton-county-child-killer-gets-new-public-defender/

Accused Benton County Child Killer Gets New Public Defender
Posted 12:06 pm, November 6, 2014, by Curt Lanning, Updated at 04:27pm, November 6, 2014   

BENTONVILLE (KFSM) – Accused Benton County child killer Zachary Holly has a new public defender, officials say.

Holly’s previous attorney, Pat Aydelott, admitted in court on Friday (Oct. 31) that he has an alcohol problem, delaying the murder trial scheduled for that day.

The new public defender for Holly’s capital murder case is Robby Golden of Little Rock, and a new trial date has been set for May 11, according to officials.

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Nathan Smith said he and the victim’s family were “very frustrated” by another delay in the trial. Holly was charged with capital murder in the 2012 killing of six-year-old Jersey Bridgeman in Bentonville.

Smith said his office and the victim’s family were ready to proceed on Monday, adding his office didn’t learn of Aydelott’s issues until Friday afternoon. Smith said the judge didn’t have much choice but to delay the trial after the public defender admitted to being ineffective because of alcoholism.
 ::snipping3::

yes, I agree everyone is entitled to competent representation . . .
but I feel so much anguish for this family.

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/posts/834561799919809

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
34 mins ·

Two years ago today we lost Jersey. Life has never been the same nor will it ever be. Our hearts are truly broke and the pain is not anything we can begin to explain. Justice has not been served and we continue to hold on to each other. To all of you who know this kind of heartache I am so sorry for you all. Life's cruelest blow is for a child to be ripped away from those that love them. The next cruelest blow is living in a society where killers are the ones with the rights. Justice4Jersey and all those how have walked in her precious little shoes.

 ::justice2nj2:: for Jersey!

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/photos/a.471877889521537.106171.471876366188356/817913524917970/?type=1

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/photos/a.471880212854638.106172.471876366188356/874547445921244/?type=1&theater

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
3 hrs · Edited ·

Her face says it all. She's gonna pick one of those flowers I bet the flowers here don't compare to the flowers in heaven.


https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneBridgemanSharingOurLove/posts/873975185978470

Jersey Dianne Bridgeman - Sharing our Love
Yesterday at 8:51am ·
I am having a hard time copping today. I miss you with every once of me. Leah is making it easier for me, but it is still tough. I'm always hurting me inside. Burying it is the only thing that I can do that helps. But I always feel the pain. And today especially. Him getting his punishment won't take this away. It won't even help. You still aren't here. I will always feel the hurt that he has put me through. I trusted him with my baby girl and that got me this. There wasn't always a monster inside of him or didn't seem that way. Maybe it was always there and I just didn't see it. I should have. I should have been there for you. I should have protected you. I should have done something, anything. But why couldn't I just wake up. Why did this have to happen?!? Why must I learn the pain and hurt of loosing a big part of me? You were so pure! So beautiful! This wonderful ball of light that made my world complete. Me, you, and your sister were the three musketeers for the longest time. Why did it have to end? I'm burning inside with questions that just won't ever be answered. But some day I will be able to spend eternity with you. I look forward with that, but that is due time. I will be happy with my family and friends until then living until it is my time to go. My time to leave these earth like I am suppose to. I know you were meant to be taken to spark some type of awareness in humanity. To try and lessen the abuse, death, and rape of innocent children. And I know that me and your memaw will do what we can to put out our voices out there. We will become a voice for those other children that are in pain. I may not be able to ever get rid of this pain that I have, but I will use this pain as a force and voice. It will become part of my strength!!

  ::MonkeyGavel:: ::justice2nj2::

Justice for this sweet, precious angel.   ::MonkeyAngel::

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneSharingOurLove/posts/942684049107583

Jersey Dianne - Sharing Our Love
1 hr · Edited ·

Death Penalty! Justice has been handed down!
Full of gratitude! More later! We need a moment. ♡♡♡♡♡♡
‪#‎Justice4Jersey‬

 ::MonkeyHang::   ::justice2nj2::

 ::MonkeyAngel::

https://www.facebook.com/JerseyDianneSharingOurLove/posts/1037073376335316

Jersey Dianne - Sharing Our Love
20 mins · Bella Vista, AR · Edited ·

Jersey was the epitome of Love ~n~ Light. Her beauty began on the inside and shined through to the outside. She was all things girlie as she loved Princess things, Purple and Pink, and of course bling. Her eyes could capture your soul if you looked into them and you would love her forever. She had a fondness for all living things and would frequently try to capture them in her tiny hands. If you ever watched a disney movie you would see that princesses do love things of nature....and so did ours. Her first love was none other than Justin Bieber. (I'm sure when she got to heaven she was lookng down and saying .....whaaaaat.......lol). I taped a show he was preforming on just for her. He had dancers with him and the expression on her face was hilarious as she belted out "He's cheatin on me" in her best southern princess sound. I have told that story many times.

We miss her so much every day. The month of November includes her birthday (today Nov 14th) the day she was taken from us (Nov 20th) and the day we laid her physical body to rest (Nov 27th). It is very difficult time for all who love her. We would not make it if it weren't for our love for each other and the support and love of the communnity for Jersey.

Justice has been served but it has not brought her back to us. It only ended what seemed to be a 2 1/2 year funeral. We will continue to be a voice for abused children and try to bring the awareness of the dangers children face.

May Jersey live on through your hearts as she does ours. May her light bring awareness to you as you look at the little ones around you and know that they live in a world where they need every watchful eye on them. You cannot be cautious enough.

Children are a gift from God and should be treated as such.

Happy Birthday in Heaven Jersey. God only knows our pain as we hold you in our hearts this day and every day.

Love ~n~ Light
Memaw