Officer Kristi Mitchell

Public Information Officer

903-798-3187 (office) 903-260-0294 (pager)

903-824-4199 (cell) 903-798-3023 (fax)

Texarkana Arkansas Police Badge

Re: Suspect Arrested In Recent Rape Case

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Dept. has arrested Myka Talley, B/M 01-29-77, for felony rape and kidnapping. Texarkana Arkansas Police Detectives Les Moody, Jason Haak, and Wayne Easley, began the investigation into the incident, which occurred on 07-04-08, in Texarkana Arkansas, involving a female victim. The female victim had been followed home by the suspect after leaving a local business. After investigating a CrimeStoppers tip, Detectives were able to obtain felony warrants for Talley. Talley was located at his place of business in Texarkana, Texas yesterday afternoon and arrested. Talley is currently at the Bi-State jail in Texarkana, Arkansas custody. This is believed to be an isolated incident and no other victim’s have been identified or come forward.

Anyone with information regarding this or any other crime is encouraged to notify TAPD or Texarkana area CrimeStoppers at 903-793-STOP.

The Texarkana Arkansas Police Dept. would like to encourage citizens to learn and practice the following safety techniques;

When approaching and leaving your vehicle be aware of your surroundings!!!

Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.

If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.

Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.

Park as close as you can to your destination, and take notice of where you parked.

Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.

Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.

Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area. Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location if you feel threatened or scared.

If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located near a police station, mall, or well-lighted location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.

Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.

Always carry your Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.

Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.

Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion.

Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. "Con-artists" and rapists are excellent in using various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings or worse.

Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings. Try to develop a “survival mindset” so that you can stay ahead the game.

Thank you and you can visit the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department online at http://www.txkusa.org/arkpolice.