Authorities report a Yellville man who has served on the board of Marion County Regional Airport for 30 years, including time as treasurer, has been arrested for stealing over $177,000 from the airport.
Douglas E. Starkey age 66 was arrested Monday on two felony charges following a lengthy investigation by the Arkansas State Police.
In June of 2024, Prosecuting Attorney David Ethredge received a report of the missing funds.
An audit was requested and the reports were turned over to the special agent in early April.
Authorities say the audit revealed Starkey had stolen $117,696 from two separate airport accounts.
Starkey allegedly had written checks to himself to facilitate the theft.
Starkey is charged with theft of property and abuse of office, both felonies.
He is free after posting $25,000 bail.