In the small town of Waldron, Arkansas, the discovery of a young woman's body in a motel room on March 21, 2020, sent ripples of shock and grief through the community. The deceased was identified as 19-year-old Charlene Jo Marie Gilley, a woman remembered for her sweet and kind nature. At the time of her death, Charlene was pregnant with a baby boy she planned to name Charlie.
The investigation into her death quickly led authorities to a suspect.
Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division identified 24-year-old Jared Briley in connection with Charlene's death. A warrant was issued for his arrest, and after evading law enforcement for approximately 24 hours, Briley was apprehended on March 22, 2020. He was subsequently charged with first-degree murder for the death of Charlene Gilley.
In the ensuing legal proceedings, Jared Briley pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. His defense attorney filed a notice of intent to rely on the defense of mental disease or defect. The case was set to go to trial in Scott County Circuit Court. The community mourned the loss of Charlene and her unborn son, holding vigils and memorials in her honor as they awaited justice. She is survived by her parents and several siblings.
