A group met Wednesday in support of Little Rock City Director Ken Richardson to counter the previous night's meeting of other residents who want him to step down.
Richardson was arrested Saturday and charged with driving while intoxicated, driving on a suspended license, and careless and prohibited driving. He's since issued an apology letter, saying he regrets his actions and will get help.
About 30 residents in his Ward 2 said Tuesday that they will write a letter asking Richardson to step down, which will be presented at next Tuesday's 6 p.m. board meeting.
In response to them, more than 50 of Richardson's supporters met Wednesday morning at the Covenant of Zion Church off 12th Street. The meeting -- called by Arkansas Stop the Violence -- included a former state representative, a former judge, pastors, community members and some of Richardson's family.
"My message to Ken and the community today is that Ken has repented, asked for a second chance, and he's willing to go to rehab. Now what more can you ask for? When a man is willing to do those things, then I think the community should give him a second chance," said former state Rep. Fred Allen.
Rohn Muse -- president of the Forest Hills Neighborhood Association, who suggested Tuesday that residents ask for Richardson's resignation -- attended Wednesday's news conference to take pictures and video but didn't speak.
Afterward, he told a reporter that the group of residents that met to discuss the possibility of recalling Richardson also has sympathy for the city director but believes that he needs to resign from his official duties to take time to heal.
Members of both groups are expected to attend next Tuesday's board meeting to speak during citizen communication time.
Metro on 01/15/2015