Horse-death man of interest caught

A man who authorities say is a person of interest in the killing of a horse taken from Southern Arkansas University was arrested on an unrelated probation violation Monday in Sebring, Fla.

William “Billy” Webster Hamilton, 40, was arrested by Highlands County sheriff’s deputies in Florida, Pike County Sheriff Preston “Pep” Glenn said.

Hamilton was considered a fugitive because he failed to finish paying restitution in a cattle-theft conviction in Pike County, Glenn said.

“We’re waiting to find out if he will sign a waiver of extradition. If he does, we will make arrangements to pick him up as soon as we can,” Glenn said.

Arkansas State Police Special Agent Hays Mcwhirter has said Hamilton is a person of interest in the shooting death of the horse named Credit Card — one of five horses taken in November from SAU’S stables in Magnolia.

A confidential informant cooperated with law enforcement authorities and recorded telephone conversations with Jaci Rae Jackson, 19, who was arrested in the thefts and charged with animal cruelty in Credit Card’s death.

Jackson, who was a member of the SAU rodeo team, faces three felony charges in Mccurtain County, Okla., and six felony charges in Columbia County.

Jackson told the informant that she wanted Credit Card killed, then “watched as the horse was shot in the head and had its throat slit by Hamilton,” according to an arrest affidavit.

Hamilton was convicted June 11, 2007, in Pike County for stealing and selling seven cows to a sale barn for $3,651.61. He was sentenced to pay a fine of $500 and restitution of $6,559.

During the sentencing, Hamilton said he stole the cattle because he needed to pay child support. He said he also used part of the money to repair his truck.

The case was reopened Nov. 16, 2009, because Hamilton failed to finish paying the restitution.

A Pike County Circuit Court clerk said Hamilton also faces a contempt of court charge.

Hamilton has also been wanted by Child Support Enforcement for past-due child support since July 2009 in Howard County, officials said.