Claude Smith Jr. charged after human remains found in Lonoke

Claude Smith Jr. was charged in Lonoke County with abuse of a corpse. Investigators located human remains near a local residence on Saturday. Officials said more charges are expected against him.

Smith is 32 years old. He was already in custody at the Pulaski County Detention Center.

Authorities found the dead man in woods near a mobile home on Joe Baty Road. Investigators believe someone killed the victim in another state. The body was then moved to Lonoke County.

The remains went to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. The state Medical Examiner will determine the cause and manner of death. Staff will also work to confirm the identity.

The state where the killing occurred will lead the homicide case. Arkansas State Police will handle crimes committed locally.

Police arrested Smith on Sept. 19 in North Little Rock. He faced a felony fleeing charge. Authorities said he drove away from law enforcement. He allegedly used the victim’s vehicle.

State crime laboratories typically process physical evidence for law enforcement agencies. Medical examiners conduct autopsies to establish official causes of death. Multi-state death cases often involve shared jurisdiction between police agencies.

The investigation in Lonoke County remains ongoing. Authorities have released no other details.