State briefs
3 officers hurt in standoff released from hospital
HACKETT — Three police officers who were wounded during a standoff with a man in western Arkansas have been released from the hospital.
The standoff started late Monday in Hackett, about 125 miles northwest of Little Rock. According to the Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office, the three deputies were hit by buckshot pellets and are now on paid medical leave.
Sebastian County Chief Deputy Hobe Runion says the standoff ended early Tuesday when the suspect was fatally shot after he stepped out of a pickup truck holding a shotgun. His name has not yet been released but authorities say he is a 48-year-old man.
According to the sheriff’s office, the standoff began when an off-duty officer heard what he believed to be shots fired at a home in his neighborhood.
Little Rock Mayor Stodola won’t seek fourth term
LITTLE ROCK — Little Rock Mayor Mark Stodola says he won’t seek a fourth term in office, citing a serious illness in his immediate family.
The former prosecutor has served as Little Rock’s mayor since 2007 and he says he plans to return to the private sector once his term ends.
In a letter, Stodola said a “recent, serious medical diagnosis” involving a family member prompted his decision.
Stodola cited redevelopment
along Little Rock’s Main Street, including the Technology Park, and the $70 million revamp of the Robinson Center as among the city’s top accomplishments during his tenure.
State Rep. Warwick Sabin and banker Frank Scott Jr. have both announced plans to run for mayor in the general election this November.
Arkansas midwife appeals at-home birth violation
LITTLE ROCK — An Arkansas midwife is appealing a finding that she violated a new state regulation that requires vaginal exams for pregnant women who wish to give birth at home.
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that the state Department of Health in October began requiring vaginal exams as part of the pregnancy health assessments.
Midwife Mary Alexander was found to be in violation of the rules after she delivered a baby in November for a client who refused an exam.
Some midwives say that some of their dropped clients have gone on to give birth at home without assistance. Alexander says she won’t abandon her clients.
William Greenfield is the medical director for the Health Department’s family health services. He says the rule was created by a panel of nurse practitioners to ensure standard practice across health units statewide.