Jonesboro club operator sues city over ordinance

The operator of a private Jonesboro nightclub is suing the city, saying its alcohol ordinance is not legal.

Craighead County Circuit Judge Victor Hill has granted a temporary restraining order asked for by club operator Reginald Prunty. The restraining order prevents the city from enforcing a six-month suspension of Prunty’s club.

The city council’s public safety committee ordered the suspension on Nov. 16 after allegations of violence in and near the club.

Prunty’s lawsuit claims he is in compliance with state alcohol regulations and the city has no authority to create a separate alcohol beverage code.

Jonesboro Police Chief Mike Yates tells the Jonesboro Sun that a dozen Arkansas cities have similar ordinances and that Jonesboro’s regulation mirrors that in place in Fayetteville.

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