Sevier Co. first responders undergo counseling for two incidents involving child deaths

DE QUEEN, Ark. (KSLA) - It’s been an emotional year so far for first responders and the courts in Sevier County and De Queen, Ark.

“We deal with a lot of stuff on a daily basis, but when it comes to small children, it really hits home,” said Sevier County Sheriff Robert Gentry.

In January, De Queen police began investigating the death of 6-year-old Luxton Perez. The child’s stepfather was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. And the week of March 3, Sevier County sheriff’s office deputies began investigating the death of 2-year-old Ava Tabor. The suspect in that case is also charged with first-degree murder.

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Sevier County Sheriff Robert Gentry says these two cases have taken a toll on those involved in the investigations.

“And I’m not going to sit here and tell you it didn’t take a toll on me... a 2-year-old baby girl don’t deserve to be in the condition she was in when I first saw her,” Sheriff Gentry said.

“Whenever you got kids of your own and you are dealing with this, then it is really challenging,” said De Queen Police Chief Scott Simmons.

On Wednesday, March 12, with counselors on-hand, Sevier County law enforcement officers and first responders went through a session to further help them cope with what officials call senseless deaths.

Prosecuting Attorney Jana Bradford says now it’s up to her office to be a voice for the children and those involved in the investigations.

“As you know, as prosecutors, it’s our job to seek justice, and that is what the community is calling for is justice for these children and that’s our primary goal is to seek justice for these children,” Bradford explained.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families and to everybody involved in these two incidences,” said Chief Simmons.