Bella Vista Man Held Without Bond in Wife's Death, Animal Cruelty

Judge cites premeditation and extreme violence in denying bail for 82-year-old suspect

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A Benton County judge has ordered an 82-year-old Bella Vista man to be held without bond after he was arrested on suspicion of capital murder and two counts of aggravated animal cruelty in the death of his 80-year-old wife. The judge cited evidence of premeditation and extreme violence in the crimes, including the euthanization of two injured dogs found at the couple's home.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges of domestic violence and mental health issues among the elderly, as well as the legal system's approach to balancing public safety and the rights of accused individuals. The alleged animal cruelty also raises concerns about the treatment of pets in domestic disputes.

The details

According to police, officers found Barbara Rodocker dead in the couple's Bella Vista home on Sunday, and her husband Terry Rodocker, 82, with self-inflicted injuries. Two injured dogs were also discovered at the scene and later euthanized due to the extent of their injuries. At a bond hearing on Wednesday, a judge found probable cause to hold Terry Rodocker without bond, citing evidence of premeditation and the extreme violence involved in the crimes. Rodocker's public defender acknowledged there was enough probable cause to detain him, while also noting Rodocker's need for medical attention and a support system from his family.

  • On Sunday, police found Barbara Rodocker dead and her husband Terry with self-inflicted injuries.
  • On Wednesday, a judge held a bond hearing and ordered Terry Rodocker to be held without bond.
  • Terry Rodocker's arraignment is set for March 16 at 8 a.m.

The players

Terry Rodocker

An 82-year-old Bella Vista man accused of killing his 80-year-old wife Barbara and injuring two dogs, resulting in their euthanization.

Barbara Rodocker

The 80-year-old wife of Terry Rodocker who was found dead in the couple's Bella Vista home.

Judge Robin Green

The Benton County Circuit Judge who presided over the bond hearing and ordered Terry Rodocker to be held without bond, citing evidence of premeditation and extreme violence.

Jay Saxton

The Benton County chief public defender who represented Terry Rodocker at the bond hearing.

Justin Harper

A Benton County deputy prosecutor who asked the judge to hold Rodocker without bond, citing the strong likelihood of conviction and the premeditation and violence involved in the crimes.

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What they’re saying

“We agree there is enough probable cause to detain him on potential charges.”

— Jay Saxton, Benton County Chief Public Defender

“There's a strong likelihood Rodocker will be convicted of the charges. There was a premeditation element to the crime and mentioned the dogs having to be euthanized.”

— Justin Harper, Benton County Deputy Prosecutor

What’s next

Terry Rodocker's arraignment is set for 8 a.m. on March 16 in Judge Green's court.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complex issues of domestic violence, mental health, and animal welfare that can arise even among the elderly. It underscores the challenges the legal system faces in balancing public safety and the rights of the accused when confronted with such extreme allegations of premeditated violence.