West Plains man pleads not guilty to rape charges

Attorney claims 'zero percent chance' client is guilty

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 38-year-old West Plains man, Corey Cauthen, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape in Baxter County Circuit Court. His attorney, Eugene Clifford, told the court that he has gathered evidence showing there is a 'zero percent chance' Cauthen is guilty as charged, and that he has a 'plethora of witnesses' who will testify Cauthen did not commit the crimes.

Why it matters

Sex-related crimes involving minors or those incapable of consent are serious allegations that can have significant legal and social consequences for the accused. Cauthen's attorney is making a strong defense, claiming he has evidence that could exonerate his client, which could impact the outcome of the case.

The details

Cauthen is charged under a statute involving rape of a person incapable of consent, a person 14-years-old or a minor in which the accused was in a position of trust or specific family relationship. The court has sealed the record to prevent the release of details surrounding the incidents. Cauthen's bond was initially set at over $250,000, but has now been lowered to $75,000 with the requirement that he wear an ankle monitor and have no contact with the victim or victim's family.

  • Cauthen appeared in Baxter County Circuit Court/Criminal Division on Monday, February 25, 2026.
  • Cauthen entered a plea of not guilty to the charges against him.

The players

Corey Cauthen

A 38-year-old West Plains man charged with two counts of rape.

Eugene Clifford

A Little Rock attorney representing Cauthen, who claims to have evidence showing 'zero percent chance' his client is guilty.

Andrew Bailey

The Circuit Judge who set Cauthen's bond at $75,000, with the requirement of an ankle monitor and no contact with the victim or victim's family.

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What they’re saying

“The evidence he had gathered showed there was a 'zero percent chance' that Cauthen was guilty as charged.”

— Eugene Clifford, Attorney (ktlo.com)

“He said he had a 'plethora of witnesses who will say he did not do this.'”

— Eugene Clifford, Attorney (ktlo.com)

What’s next

The judge will hear the evidence presented by Cauthen's attorney to determine if there is sufficient reason to believe he did not commit the alleged crimes.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of a robust defense and the presumption of innocence in the criminal justice system, even for serious allegations such as rape. The attorney's claims of exculpatory evidence could significantly impact the outcome if proven true.