Berrios also alleged that Arnold appeared intoxicated. However, she said restaurant employees told her he had not consumed an excessive amount of alcohol at the business. Arnold had not issued a public response in the reports available by September 4.
That distinction between recorded conduct and off-camera allegations now matters. The footage gives investigators a starting point, while witness interviews and other evidence will determine what prosecutors can support. Social media has already delivered its verdict, naturally, but the legal process requires slightly more paperwork.
What are Benton police investigating?
Officers responded to the restaurant at about 8:24 p.m. on August 28, according to KWCH. Police interviewed witnesses and collected video while investigating the encounter as an alleged battery.
The Benton Police Department planned to forward its reports to the appropriate prosecutor for review. As of September 4, authorities had announced:
- No arrest
- No criminal charge
- No prosecutorial decision
The public descriptions of Arnold’s role also differ slightly. KWCH identified him as an “equity holder” connected to several Wichita-area restaurants. Other reporting, including coverage by The Mary Sue and earlier reporting from The Wichita Eagle, described him as Stearman’s owner.
The Wichita Eagle reported that Arnold bought Stearman Field Bar & Grill in 2019. He later operated restaurants through A&M Management Group with business partner Lauren Irwin. Whatever corporate title appears on the paperwork, the episode has spread well beyond one dining room.
Why could the fallout affect several restaurants?
Arnold has been linked to five Wichita-area restaurant interests:
- Stearman Field Bar & Grill
- Deano’s Grill & Tapworks
- Oak & Pie
- Deano’s on Pier 37
- Morgan’s Steakhouse
Some of the businesses released a joint statement saying customer safety and satisfaction were their “highest priority” and that they were taking steps to prevent similar conduct. The group also said one person’s actions did not represent its other employees and asked customers to continue supporting the restaurants while the matter was addressed.
That request carries practical weight. The wider group reportedly employs about 400 people, most of whom had nothing to do with an adult approaching a stranger’s toddler at a birthday table. The commercial damage, however, does not always pause to review an organizational chart.
For now, the case remains unresolved. Police have gathered evidence, prosecutors are expected to review it, and Arnold has not publicly offered his version of events. The video answers the central question of whether he kissed the child’s face. Whether the full encounter amounts to criminal battery is the question authorities still have to decide.
