An Arkansas mother, Trish Eubanks, is facing serious legal repercussions after allegedly assaulting a 16-year-old girl while trick-or-treating. The incident occurred on Halloween night in Paragould, where a group of trick-or-treaters, including the victim, Josie Knoblin, encountered Eubanks. Eyewitnesses reported that an altercation ensued between the two, with claims that Eubanks struck the teenager multiple times in the face.
According to Josie’s father, Justin Knoblin, the altercation escalated after Eubanks allegedly threatened to shoot him during a heated exchange. Knoblin stated that Eubanks initiated the confrontation, resulting in his daughter stepping in to protect him. “When she got close enough to my daughter, she started raining punches on my daughter like Mike Tyson,” Knoblin described in a Facebook live session aimed at clarifying the events of that night.
Police were called to the scene and noted visible injuries on Josie, who was subsequently transported to the hospital. The authorities later reported that Eubanks not only assaulted the teenager but also threatened to shoot individuals present at the scene. Following community outcry, Eubanks was taken into custody the day after the incident, facing charges that include terroristic threatening and battery.
Eubanks, who is a developmental director at Mission Outreach of Northeast Arkansas, has reportedly been the subject of significant backlash since the incident. Many community members have called for her removal from her position, expressing outrage over her actions. Eubanks was released from jail after posting a $50,000 bond.
The narrative surrounding the incident has been contentious, with differing accounts from both parties. Eubanks’ husband, Chris Eubanks, claimed that Josie had initiated the confrontation by using foul language, prompting his wife’s response in self-defense. This version of events contrasts sharply with Josie’s father’s account and the statements from witnesses who assert that Eubanks was the aggressor.
As the case continues to develop, it has garnered significant attention on social media, with many using the hashtag #JusticeForJosie and displaying blue ribbons in support of the victim. The social media activity raises concerns about potential impacts on the legal proceedings, particularly regarding jury selection should the case go to trial.
Legal experts have suggested that the nature of the community’s response could complicate matters for Eubanks, as finding impartial jurors may prove challenging given the widespread public discourse. As of now, further investigations are underway, and both families are preparing for the next steps in what has quickly become a highly publicized legal battle.
