McBeth to step down

Carroll County Western District Judge Marianne McBeth announced Friday she plans to step down as District Judge. McBeth, who was elected to her third term in the position on May 22, said, in an interview with the Carroll County News, that her decision stemmed from personal circumstances.

"I currently have been promoted to senior counsel for Tyson's, Inc., where I have worked for four years," McBeth said. "Additionally, my 85-year-old father, who resides with our family, has recently been diagnosed with an inoperable aneurysm. It is a very bittersweet decision on my part, but I have decided I cannot do it all at this time."

McBeth's position will expire Dec. 31 and her replacement will be made by the governor. McBeth, who is a licensed attorney in Arkansas, a Certified Mediator, and a former Deputy Prosecutor of Carroll County, also serves as a Corporate In-House Counsel. She has previously served on several boards, and periodically teaches legal courses. She has been a resident of Eureka Springs and the Western District for 15 years, and of Arkansas for most of her life.