(AP) – An Arkansas panel wants the state Supreme Court to
temporarily suspend a circuit judge arrested after state troopers said he drove
drunk through a sobriety checkpoint in Johnson County.
The Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission on Wednesday sought the
suspension of 57-year-old William M. Pearson, who handles the criminal docket
from Franklin, Johnson and Pope counties.
The panel said the accusations “adversely affect” Pearson’s ability to serve
as judge. It wants the state Supreme Court to suspend Pearson with pay pending
the outcome of further proceedings.
State police say Pearson drove through a checkpoint Friday night and had to be
chased down. Pearson was released early Saturday after posting a $1,400 bond.
A special prosecutor will handle the case. The Fifth Circuit judge is due in
court March 3.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI