LITTLE ROCK — Rick Watkins of Little Rock, vice chairman of the state Game and Fish Commission, was arrested Tuesday evening in Lonoke County and charged with public intoxication and disorderly conduct.
Lonoke County Sheriff John Staley said Tuesday night that Watkins was outside his vehicle near U.S. 70 and Arkansas 31 discharging a firearm.
“He wasn’t shooting at anybody,” Staley said, “but he was very intoxicated. He wasn’t in his vehicle. I’m not sure of his relationship with the residence that was close to there.”
Staley said that Watkins did not resist when arrested.
“He was very cooperative, but he was very intoxicated,” Staley said. “That usually doesn’t go hand-in-hand.”
Watkins was taken Tuesday night to the Lonoke County jail but was later released.
Sheriff ’s office officials said more information on Watkins’ arrest would be available today.
Watkins was born in Little Rock and graduated from the University of Arkansas atFayetteville with a degree in business administration. He is owner and president of the Watkins Co., a printing and advertising distribution company.
Watkins has been active in the Boy Scouts of America as an Eagle Scout and as an adult volunteer.
The seven voting members of the Game and Fish Commission serve staggered seven-year terms. Watkins’ term expires in 2014.
Arkansas, Pages 10 on 01/23/2013