Prosecutors dismiss case against Judge Clinard

BENTONVILLE -- Prosecutors dismissed the public intoxication case against Benton County Judge Bob Clinard.

Rogers District Judge Paul Bridges signed an order Tuesday dismissing the charge against Clinard.

Clinard said Thursday his attorney, Ed McClure, handled the case for him. Clinard said he didn't have any other comment.

Clinard was stopped by two Benton County Sheriff's Office deputies at the Frisco Fest in Rogers on Aug. 22 when he stumbled and had difficulty maintaining his balance. Clinard was taken to the hospital after he asked for medical assistance as he spoke with the deputies.

Clinard "had a very strong odor of intoxicants on his breath and person," according to information from the Sheriff 's Office.

Jim Clark, Benton County's prosecutor, previously announced his intentions to dismiss the case.

Clinard's blood alcohol content wasn't taken in the emergency room following the incident, Clark said. The emergency room doctor stated in his report Clinard didn't appear intoxicated, Clark said.

The Sheriff's Office didn't seek a warrant to obtain a blood sample from Clinard after the citation was issued, according to Clark.

General News on 10/22/2014