Pineville Marshals Keeping Community The ‘Safest We Can,’ 24 Hours A Day

Pineville is a great community in which to live and raise children, and Chris Owens plans to keep it that way.

As Pineville city marshal, Owens oversees a staff of 12 who helps keep the peace as they work a variety of calls. Three full-time, two part-time and seven reserve deputy marshals handle all types of law enforcement calls in Pineville, from assaults to traffic accidents. The staff patrols several campgrounds in the area, as well as the public access area on Elk River. Pineville also is the only office in McDonald County to patrol I-49, Owens said.

The office offers its services 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The operational budget is funded by the city of Pineville.

The office is one of the few still remaining to have an elected marshal. Owens was appointed, but then was elected. The next election for his position will be held in 2020.

In his three years as marshal, Owens recognizes that Pineville neighbors show a lot of support for law enforcement. Owens said the office is always appreciative of the public’s assistance and input, as well as the Pineville City Council, which is always supportive of himself and the office.

Staff members work well together, try to avail themselves as much as possible, all while being in a family setting, he said.

The community’s caring neighbors and its beautiful scenery inspire marshals to help others.

“We are going to keep it the safest we can.”

SALLY CARROLL/MCDONALD COUNTY PRESS The Pineville Marshal’s Office staff includes, from left, Levi Martin, Wes McDaniel, Sgt. Chris Pierce, Gary Huff and Captain Bill Rataczak. Not pictured: City Marshal Chris Owens, Ashley Boyd, Jimmy Armstrong, Jon Chandler, Chris Allison, David...