Special prosecutor will not seek charges against Lee

BENTONVILLE -- A Benton County Sheriff's Office captain was cleared of any criminal wrongdoing in an incident involving his teen son.

Jack McQuary, special prosecutor, issued a letter Tuesday stating he will not seek charges against Andy Lee.

"Capt. Lee is relieved this investigation is over and is looking forward to going back to work and serving this community," said Shane Wilkinson, Lee's attorney. "This decision will also allow for his family to move forward in a positive direction."

McQuary was appointed special prosecutor after Nathan Smith, Benton County's prosecutor, recused from the case. Lee was placed on paid administrative leave shortly after the complaint was filed with police.

The investigation concerned an abuse allegation. The boy, 15, claimed Lee assaulted him May 2, according to court documents and McQuary's letter.

Bentonville police received the complaint, but requested Springdale police handle the investigation. Lee was a longtime Bentonville police officer before he took a job at the Sheriff's Office.

McQuary's letter letter strongly defended Lee.

"It is my opinion, based upon interviews and the evidence, that Capt. Lee's involvement in this matter was of a father, who loves and cares about his son, who needed guidance but being 15 years of age refused to admit that he is wrong and doesn't want to listen to sound advice," McQuary wrote.

Lee was trying to discuss behavioral issues with his son, who began a physical altercation with his father, according to McQuary's letter. Lee had to restrain his son, who later left Lee's home and reported the incident to law enforcement, the letter states.

Keshia Guyll, spokeswoman for the Sheriff's Office, said Lee probably will return to work Monday.

NW News on 06/23/2016

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