earch Intensifies for Missing Women Robyn DeSort and Denise Rhodes
Vanished Without a Trace
Missing person Arkansas. Two women—34-year-old Robyn DeSort and 59-year-old Denise Rhodes—have gone missing under unsettling circumstances in Saline County, Arkansas. They were last seen together on the evening of July 8, 2025, but days later, neither returned home. What started as a simple missing person report has quickly developed into a deeply concerning investigation.
Early Investigation into the Disappearance of Robyn DeSort and Denise Rhodes
On July 16, the Saline County Sheriff’s Office opened an official missing persons case for Denise. Investigators noted she was believed to be with her neighbor, Robyn. The following day, Robyn’s family also reported her missing. Authorities confirmed that Robyn had recently switched vehicles, moving from her usual Chevy Trailblazer to a GMC Yukon.
Initially, police believed the women intended to travel to Eureka Springs, but evidence now suggests they never arrived.
Troubling Discovery
On July 19, investigators located the abandoned GMC in Bauxite. “We have that vehicle now and are processing it for any evidence that may help us in locating these two ladies,” Chief Deputy Dustin Robertson told local media.
Adding to the mystery, Denise’s home burned down on July 12, just four days after the women vanished. Neighbors suspect arson, though no official cause has been confirmed.
A History of Violence
Complicating matters further is Robyn’s past. In January, she filed an order of protection against her husband, Michael Robert-Weser. A month later, Weser was arrested on charges of domestic battery, terroristic threatening, and aggravated assault. While the kidnapping charge against him was dropped, he pled guilty to the other charges. In a controversial outcome, Weser received three years’ probation.
Significantly, Weser’s conviction date was July 7—the day before Robyn disappeared. In one of her final Facebook posts, Robyn described harrowing abuse, including being held at gunpoint. Her words suggested desperation, hopelessness, and fear for her life.
Community Concerns
Neighbors and friends have voiced alarm. Denise was devoted to her dogs, yet they remain uncared for since her disappearance. Those close to her insist she would never abandon her pets. Furthermore, she regularly stayed in contact with her incarcerated husband, Michael Gatlin, and was excited about his expected release.
A neighbor, speaking anonymously out of fear of retaliation, stated bluntly: “There’s foul play here.”
Authorities Seek Public Help
Despite weeks of searching, law enforcement has found no definitive leads. Authorities emphasize the urgent need for community awareness. “We need people to keep their eyes open,” Robertson stressed. “If you see someone that matches the description, reach out to us immediately.”
Call to Action
If you have any information about the whereabouts of Robyn DeSort or Denise Rhodes, contact the Saline County Sheriff’s Office at 501-303-5609 and request to speak with a detective.
