POPE COUNTY (KATV) — The Russellville Police Department has arrested Dion Dawson, 50, following a 7 On Your Side investigation. Dawson faces charges of theft of property and obtaining signatures by deception.
According to Russellville Police Officer Andrew Reeves, their attention was drawn to Dawson after the airing of our investigation. Reeves confirmed that they had been monitoring Dawson’s activities.
Allegedly, Dawson deceived hunters from Arkansas and neighboring states by leasing land privately in London, Arkansas. Several hunters reported paying him substantial sums, only to discover later that the land was not privately owned by Dawson.
Last year, a group of hunters we interviewed disclosed that Dawson was residing at a Russellville Motel 6. Upon inquiry, the motel manager verified Dawson’s presence.
During our attempt to converse with Dawson at the motel parking lot, he initially engaged but swiftly walked away when questioned.
“Mr. Dawson, would you like to speak with us?” we asked.
“He’s going to call the police,” the manager interjected.
“No comment?” we attempted again.
Contrary to the manager’s warning, Dawson did not call the police but instead began emailing 7 On Your Side, asserting he intended to talk while also threatening to “cause problems.”
Despite offering two more chances for Dawson to communicate, he responded by stating, “Please go ahead and run it [the story], make me rich.”
Officer Reeves confirmed Dawson’s continued engagement in the scam this year. Information provided by new victims enabled the Russellville Police and the Pope County Sheriff’s Office to take action against Dawson this week.