KTHV reports that Bald Knob Police Chief Erek Balentine is resigning out of concern for the safety of his family.

Balentine’s pickup was set fire and spray-painted with “2 Amendment” not long after he stirred criticism among many who favor open carry of weapons by arresting a man who wore a holstered handgun into a McDonald’s and insisted state law allowed it unless the restaurant had a sign posted to prohibit it. The man was convicted of carrying a weapon and disorderly conduct and plans to appeal the case, perhaps to settle a controversy over exactly what a legislative change did to the open carry law.

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Meanwhile, Balentine has had enough. He’d earlier said he didn’t suspect the man who was arrested in the torching of his truck. But he told KTHV:

 “I feel that I am bettering the safety of my family and my new born child.” If someone could stoop as low enough to burn my truck then I don’t want to take that chance to endanger my family. I am officially resigning and my last day will be October 5th. I will continue my support for Bald Knob Police Department and the city. The council has been in support of me from the beginning and I appreciate all of them. I will continue to help Bald Knob everyway that I can and support the New Chiefs Department. I will continue to pursue all cases that I have, including the open carry case.”

KATV has posted Balentine’s resignation letter.

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