An Arkansas man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say a kidnapping investigation led to the discovery of methamphetamine, firearms and other evidence during a traffic stop near McAlester.
Leon Charles Hendry, 55, of Shirley, Arkansas, is charged in Pittsburg County District Court with kidnapping and trafficking methamphetamine. He also faces charges including possession of a controlled substance, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of a firearm after former conviction of a felony, distribution of a controlled dangerous substance, brandishing a firearm and driving under suspension.
According to a probable cause affidavit, Pittsburg County deputies were called Aug. 25, 2025, to Highway 31 East near Featherston in response to a reported kidnapping involving firearms tied to a maroon Toyota Tundra.
Authorities say McAlester Police later located the truck traveling south on U.S. Highway 69 near Savanna. Investigators reported Hendry was removed from the vehicle at gunpoint while officers conducted a felony stop.
The affidavit states the victim was found inside the truck and safely removed from the vehicle during the stop.
During a search of the vehicle, authorities reported finding glass pipes with white residue, baggies containing a crystal-like substance, digital scales, a torch lighter, a phone and tablet, along with bump stocks for an AR-style rifle.
Investigators said the crystal-like substance later tested positive for methamphetamine and weighed 36 grams. Authorities also reported recovering firearms from the vehicle.
According to court records, Hendry was initially held without bond before bond was later set at $75,000 with a no-contact order against the victim. Records show the bond was later reduced to $30,000, which Hendry posted Sept. 5, 2025.
Court records further show Hendry failed to appear for a scheduled preliminary hearing on April 2, 2026, resulting in a bench warrant and bond forfeiture. After being taken back into custody, Hendry appeared in court May 6, 2026, where bond was set at $60,000.