BENTONVILLE — Van Stone will not seek another term as Benton County prosecuting attorney. "Today I announce my decision not to seek a third term as prosecuting attorney in order to pursue another opportunity," Stone said Monday. "It has been a tremendous privilege and honor to serve in the office for the past 16 years as a deputy prosecutor and prosecuting attorney. I am thankful to the people of Benton County for trusting me to do the work I have loved."
Monday was the start of the filing period for candidates for county, township and quorum court district offices for the May 20 party primaries.
Stone said his decision is an easy one knowing the quality of "dedicated and experienced" people in the prosecutor's office.
"I have the utmost admiration and gratitude for the dedicated people in the prosecutor's office and in law enforcement with whom I have had the privilege of working with over the years," Stone said. "When my tenure ends and the transition begins, our veteran group of 17 deputy prosecutors and our hardworking staff will continue to pursue justice with integrity and to protect victims of crime."
Stone's term will end Dec. 31. He declined to comment on his plans and whether he will serve the remainder of his term.
"I think he's been an outstanding prosecutor," David Clinger, retired circuit judge, said of Stone. "He's not been flamboyant or flashy, but he's been a very effective prosecutor."
Stone, 44, has served with integrity and honesty and has had the courage to make tough decisions, Clinger said.
"I hate to see him leave," Clinger said. "I understand that the job can wear on you and there's a lot of stress that comes with the job."
Stone always was prepared when in his court and he made sure his deputies were prepared for court, too, Clinger said.
Joel Huggins, a Springdale attorney, said Stone will be missed.
"He is a true professional and Benton County was well served," Huggins said. "I'm sad he's leaving."
Stone joined the local prosecutor's office in 1997 as a law clerk while attending law school.
Stone was hired in 1998 as a deputy prosecutor. Former Benton County Prosecuting Attorney Bob Balfe promoted Stone to senior trial attorney in 2000. Balfe chose Stone to be his chief deputy two years later.
Stone left the prosecutor's office in 2004 for private practice and returned in 2005 to serve as chief deputy for Robin Green after Balfe was appointed U.S. Attorney for the Western District.
Stone was later elected prosecuting attorney.
"Van will truly be missed by the deputy prosecutors and support staff," said Debbie Herndon, legal office manager for the prosecutor's office. "He has been a dedicated prosecutor and I have admired his leadership to this office as we have handled thousands of cases during his two terms. It has been my privilege to work for him and I am extremely proud of his service to the Benton County community."
NW News on 02/25/2014