Uncovering the Truth: The Dark Secrets of Woodruff County by Kent Handy

Some stories demand to be told. Some truths refuse to stay buried. In The Dark Secrets of Woodruff County, Kent Handy delivers a gut-wrenching account of injustice, perseverance, and the relentless fight for truth. This powerful autobiography uncovers a decades-long cover-up that kept a horrific crime hidden in the shadows—until one man refused to stay silent.

A Family’s Nightmare

Born into a tight-knit Black family in rural Arkansas, Handy's childhood was filled with love, unity, and resilience despite the hardships of poverty. But in 1984, his world was shattered when four of his siblings and his first cousin were murdered in Augusta, Arkansas. Instead of seeking justice, local authorities—including police officers, fire marshals, pathologists, and the county coroner—allegedly conspired with the Ku Klux Klan to cover up the crime.

For many, that would have been the end of the story. But for Kent Handy, it was just the beginning of a lifelong battle to expose the truth.

A 30-Year Fight for Justice

For three decades, Handy dedicated himself to uncovering what really happened to his family. He faced racism, systemic roadblocks, and the constant resistance of those who wanted the case to disappear. But he never gave up.

His persistence paid off in 2014 when he convinced several white residents of Woodruff County to meet with the FBI. Their testimonies named those responsible for covering up the murders, finally shining a light on a dark chapter that had remained hidden for far too long.

A Story That Still Matters Today

Handy’s fight is not just a personal one—it reflects the broader struggle against racial injustice in America. His story echoes today’s conversations about police corruption, systemic racism, and the ongoing fight for accountability. In an era where movements like Black Lives Matter continue to push for change, The Dark Secrets of Woodruff County is a timely and necessary reminder that justice is not always immediate—but it must always be pursued.

About the Author

Kent Handy’s life is a testament to resilience. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1960, he later moved to Augusta before returning to finish high school. He served six years in the Arkansas National Guard before building a successful career at Xerox in Rochester, NY. In 2005, he founded Authority Records, but his unresolved family tragedy eventually led him to leave the music industry to tell his story and continue his fight for justice.

Why This Book Matters

The Dark Secrets of Woodruff County is more than just a memoir—it is a call to action. It challenges us to confront the injustices of the past and ensure that they are never repeated. Through Handy’s words, we are reminded that silence enables oppression, but persistence can lead to change.

This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in justice, truth, and the power of never giving up.

Are you ready to uncover the truth?

Order The Dark Secrets of Woodruff County today and join Kent Handy in his fight to make sure history never forgets.