Jonesboro's police chief has resigned three days after being suspended without pay because of derogatory statements he made on Facebook about a reporter.
Michael Yates submitted a letter of resignation Monday to Mayor Harold Perrin, saying he carefully considered his position and decided "the present circumstances dictate that I must resign my position."
Yates wrote that he allowed "anger and pride override" his judgment and wisdom and said things that are not acceptable. The resignation is effective Monday.
Yates was suspended Friday by Perrin for 30 days after a series of posts critical of reporter Sunshine Crump of The Jonesboro Sun. Crump resigned, citing harassment by Yates, but The Sun reports that Crump has now agreed to return.
Perrin says Assistant Chief Tim Eads will serve as acting police chief.
