At this time (9:30 AM), officers from multiple agencies are involved in a manhunt in Norfork after a man fled on foot from the Norfork Police Chief from a residence on Majors Street. 

     Officers believe the suspect who fled is 23 year old STEPHAN RICHARD WHAPLES, who is wanted on outstanding felony warrants for Failure to Appear in Court.  WHAPLES, who uses the alias of "TRAVIS ADAMS", has a history of fleeing from police.  WHAPLES is described as 5-11, 160 pounds, short dark hair.  He was wearing red shorts, no shirt, and multiple tattoos.  He has multiple prior arrests for burglaries, thefts, and fleeing.

    Officers have no information at present to believe that WHAPLES is armed or poses a danger to the public.  The Sheriff's Office helicopter and tracking dogs from the Arkansas Department of Corrections - North Central Unit have been called in to assist.

     If any persons sees WHAPLES or has information as to his whereabouts, they are asked to contact the Sheriff's Office.

/s/ John F. Montgomery,
Baxter County Sheriff