BENTONVILLE -- Sheriff Kelley Cradduck was admitted to Mercy Medical Center after suffering a possible seizure at his Rogers' home Wednesday, according to a statement released by his office Thursday evening.
Cradduck had been ill for several days before he suffered the possible seizure, according to the statement. Cradduck was taken to the hospital where he was admitted and is undergoing treatment and tests. Cradduck was in the intensive care unit Thursday and isn't allowed visitors, according to the statement.
Keshia Guyll, the spokeswoman for the Sheriff's Office, said she couldn't disclose when or how Cradduck was taken to the hospital.
According to the statement, updates on Cradduck's condition will be given as his family provides them. The statement asked for privacy and respect.
Cradduck, a Republican, is serving his second term as sheriff. He was elected to his first term in 2012 and took office in January 2013. Cradduck hasn't formally announced his candidacy for his third term in next year's primary election, but he said last week he intended to seek re-election.
Timothy Filbeck, Paul Pillaro and Glenn Latham have announced their candidacies for the Republican nomination for sheriff in March's election.
All three criticized the current leadership in the Sheriff's Office, saying Cradduck is too often absent from his office and the community.
Cradduck said in a story published in the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette last week he stands behind his leadership of the office and noted he had a good reason to be absent at times. Cradduck spent time away from the office earlier this year caring for his ill wife.
"I am not going to apologize for taking time away to care for my sick wife," he said.
Cradduck said he has good people in leadership positions, and they were in constant communication during his absences.
County Judge Bob Clinard said he saw news reports Thursday concerning Cradduck's health.
"I wish he and his family well," Clinard said. "I hope he recovers soon."
Clinard said Cradduck has an excellent staff and he believes they'll do a good job while is recovering.
Latham urged people to keep Cradduck in their thoughts and prayers.
Filbeck also requested people pray for a speedy recovery for Cradduck.
"I know the deputies at the Sheriff's Office will continue to fill in and keep the office running as they have so faithfully done in the past," he said.
Pillaro posted on his Facebook page his thoughts and prayers are with Cradduck and his family.
NW News on 09/04/2015