Suspect pleads not guilty

The suspect in the beatings of two women at Anna church in September has pleaded not guilty to the charges he is facing.

Willis Bates, 45, of Anna, is charged in the connection with a violent attack which happened Sept. 28 at the First Baptist Church in Anna. He faces multiple felony charges.

Bates entered the not guilty plea during an appearance Tuesday in Union County Circuit Court in Jonesboro.

A pretrial hearing the case is set for 9 a.m. Dec. 8 in circuit court.

Bates remains in custody at the Tri-County Detention Center in Anna.

The victims who were injured in the attack continue to recover.


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