Crime
Who is Kerri Rollo? Vandalizing Charlie Kirk memorial in front of Bentonville Court House
UPDATE: Two Bentonville women were arrested Wednesday in connection with vandalizing a memorial dedicated to Charlie Kirk outside the Benton County Courthouse.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office learned Tuesday of a vandalism incident at the courthouse involving the makeshift memorial, according to a Sheriff’s Office news release.
A video that had been posted online shows a person tearing up a sign and kicking items comprising the memorial, which had been set up at the bottom of the courthouse steps in downtown Bentonville.
Following a “swift investigation,” detectives identified and arrested two women in connection with criminal mischief in the first degree, a misdemeanor: Kerri Melissa Rollo, 23, and Kaylee Heather Rollo, 22, both of Jonquilla Way in Bentonville; Kaylee Rollo faces an additional charge of obstruction of governmental operations, according to the release.
Both were being held Wednesday at the Benton County Jail with no bond set.
Kirk, a conservative political activist, was assassinated during a public appearance Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
BENTONVILLE, AR — Authorities have confirmed that an Arkansas Tech University student was involved in the defacement of a public memorial honoring activist Charlie Kirk in front of Bentonville Court House.
Police identified the individual as Kerri Melissa Rollo who appeared in a widely circulated video allegedly damaging the memorial alongside her younger sister.
According to the Arkansas State Police, Rollo was previously arrested during a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 71, near a rest area, where she was charged with possession of drug paraphernalia.
Jacqueline Nichole Maberry, 20, was also taken into custody during the same stop and charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Following the release of the video, Rollo’s connection to Bella’s Table, a restaurant in Bella Vista, drew public scrutiny. Community members contacted the business demanding accountability.
In response, Bella’s Table issued a public statement addressing the situation:
“We understand your outrage over this incident. The individual who defaced the Charlie Kirk memorial does not represent or define our company, nor the hard-working team that serves our community every day. This person’s actions are not a reflection of our standards, values, or culture. Please know that we are addressing this matter internally with the seriousness it deserves. We ask that the dedication and professionalism of our broader staff not be overshadowed by the poor choices of one individual. Our commitment remains to honor our values and provide a respectful and positive experience for all.”
Additionally, sources confirmed that Rollo has been removed from the residence where she was living at the time of the incident.
The Bentonville Police Department continues to review the defacement case, though no additional charges have yet been announced in relation to the vandalism.
HARRIS COUNTY, TX — A juvenile male was shot and killed in the Northwest Park area, prompting an active investigation by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).
Deputies responded at approximately 2:15 p.m. to reports of a shooting at a residential complex located at 10155 Bammel North Houston Road, near North Houston Rosslyn and Fallbrook Drive.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered a juvenile Hispanic male suffering from a gunshot wound.
Despite attempts by first responders to perform CPR and lifesaving measures, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Detectives from the Homicide Division, led by Detective Jason Brown, responded to conduct the investigation.
Based on initial witness statements, deputies were able to detain a 15-year-old male suspect believed to be involved in the incident.
According to preliminary findings, investigators believe the shooting may have occurred during a possible drug-related transaction.
At this stage, no additional suspects are believed to be involved.
Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) are processing evidence, while detectives continue to review surveillance footage from the apartment complex and interview witnesses.
The identity of the deceased has not yet been formally confirmed, though authorities believe they have located potential family members.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.