FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONTACT: Ann Whitehead - Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office Phone: (501) 618-8133 email: ann.whitehead@asp.arkansas.gov (LITTLE ROCK) - The Thanksgiving holiday period is one of the busiest for Arkansas motorists and out of state travelers. During the upcoming week-long holiday travel period Arkansas State Troopers will join with other state and local law enforcement officers nationwide to ensure drivers obey the rules of the road and motorists are buckled-up in their seat belts. Motor vehicle crashes nationwide during the 2010 Thanksgiving holiday reporting period (Wednesday, November 24th – Monday, November 29th) resulted in 337 passenger vehicle occupants being killed. A staggering 55 percent of the fatality victims were not wearing seat belts. In Arkansas, during the same Thanksgiving travel period, 7 people lost their lives and 57 percent of those killed were not wearing seat belts. “Seat belts save lives and that’s why State Troopers and local law enforcement officers across Arkansas will participate in the national Click It or Ticket, Day and Night mobilization,” said Colonel Stan Witt, Director of the Arkansas State Police and Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. The Arkansas State Police will place additional State Troopers on the highway during the Thanksgiving holiday period. The national mobilization effort directed at seat belt violators begins November 19th and will continue through November 25th. According to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), during 2010, seat belts saved more than 12,500 lives. Research indicates the risk of fatal injury to front seat passenger car occupants is reduced by 45 percent, and the risk of moderate to serious injury is reduced by 50 percent when seat belts are worn correctly. “Buckling up is simple and it’s a proven life saver, but it’s often forgotten during the hustle and bustle of holiday travel, particularly at nighttime,” said Colonel Witt. Nationally, during the 2010 Thanksgiving holiday weekend, 64 percent of nighttime fatalities involved unbelted passengers compared to only 41 percent unbuckled passengers in daytime fatalities. “It’s unfortunate too many people need a tough reminder in the form of a traffic ticket,” Colonel Witt said, “but taking just a few seconds for everyone in a vehicle to fasten their seat belt can make a life or death difference.” The Arkansas State Police encourages motorists year round to practice safe driving habits which begin with buckling-up before leaving the driveway. For more information about the Click It or Ticket, Day and Night campaign, visit www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov or call the Arkansas Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.

(LITTLE ROCK) – The Arkansas State Police Commission approved a recommendation received today from Colonel Stan Witt, State Police Director, to promote Captain Henry La Mar to the rank of major and serve as commander of the department’s Criminal Investigation Division. Major La Mar, 58, of Little Rock, is a thirty-three year veteran of the department and has most recently been assigned as CID assistant division commander and acting commander. During today’s commission meeting six other promotions were approved. Sergeant Kyle Drown, 39, of Russellville, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Lieutenant Drown is a sixteen year veteran of the department and most recently has been assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop J, as a post sergeant. Lieutenant Drown will be assigned to Troop J headquarters at Clarksville as assistant troop commander. Sergeant John Overman, 51, of Huntsville, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Lieutenant Overman is a fourteen year veteran of the department and most recently has been assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, as a post sergeant. Lieutenant Overman will be assigned to Troop L headquarters at Springdale as assistant troop commander. Sergeant David Lafferty, 52, of Hot Springs, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Lieutenant Lafferty is a twenty-four year veteran of the department and most recently has been assigned to the Criminal Investigation Division, Company C, as a special agent supervisor and acting company commander. Lieutenant Lafferty will assume command duties of CID, Company C. Corporal Jamie Gravier, 36, of Texarkana, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Gravier is a fourteen year veteran of the department and most recently has been assigned as a patrol trooper in the Highway Patrol Division, Troop G. Sergeant Gravier will now assume duties as a post supervisor. Corporal Marty Pollock, 49, of Bentonville, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Pollock is a twenty-two year veteran of the department and most recently has been assigned as a patrol trooper in the Highway Patrol Division, Troop L. Sergeant Pollock will now assume duties as a post supervisor. Corporal Paulette Ward, 42, of Little Rock, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Ward is a fourteen year veteran of the department and most recently has been assigned as a special agent within the Director’s Office, Office of Professional Standards. Sergeant Ward will now assume duties as a case agent supervisor.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Ann Whitehead - (501) 618-8133 ann.whitehead@asp.arkansas.gov Law enforcement agencies across the state are preparing to provide additional protection for travelers along Arkansas roadways this holiday season. The Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office has joined with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in announcing Arkansas’s participation in the national law enforcement and public media campaign, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.” “Focusing on the Christmas and New Year holidays, December 14 – January 1, Arkansas law enforcement agencies will conduct saturation patrols and sobriety checkpoints to identify and arrest impaired drivers,” said Colonel Stan Witt, Arkansas State Police Director and Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “If your celebration includes drinking alcohol, please celebrate responsibly, don’t take a chance, because chances are you’ll be caught,” Colonel Witt stated. “The choice is yours. Designate a driver or one will be appointed for you, straight to jail.” Last year 34 percent of all the traffic fatalities in Arkansas were alcohol related. This translates into 190 lives lost on Arkansas roadways in one year due to alcohol related motor vehicle crashes. Colonel Witt said State Troopers will join other state and local law enforcement officers across Arkansas in making sure Arkansas roadways stay safe. “The Arkansas State Police works every day to reduce the number of injuries and deaths associated with traffic crashes.” Colonel Witt said. “Drunk driving is a crime and will not be tolerated.” “Drunk driving crashes are not accidents,” said Arkansas Program Manager of Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Pam Sell, “These crashes are entirely preventable if motorists would forego a holiday activity that can often lead to tragedy - getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after drinking or using other drugs.” MADD suggests that party hosts include alcohol-free beverages and protein-rich foods, along with reminding guests to plan ahead and remember the following advice: • If you plan to drive, don’t drink. • If you drink, choose a sober designated driver. • Take a taxicab or ask someone to get you to your designation, if you have been drinking. • Report impaired drivers to law enforcement • Always wear your safety belt, your best defense against an impaired driver. For more information about the campaign, visit www.trafficsafetymarketing.gov, call the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136 or contact MADD at (501) 246-8810.

(LITTLE ROCK) – The Arkansas State Police Commission has approved the recommendations of Colonel Stan Witt, State Police Director, to promote nine State Troopers to fill supervisory positions within three of the department’s four divisions. Lieutenant Steve Coppinger, 50, of Fayetteville, was promoted to the rank of captain.

Captain Coppinger will be assigned as assistant division commander of the State Police Criminal Investigation Division. He is a 16 year veteran of the department and most recently has worked as commander of CID, Company D, headquartered at Fort Smith. Sergeant Jason Aaron, 37, of Van Buren, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Lieutenant Aaron will be assigned as commander of CID, Company E, headquartered at Harrison. He is a 14 year veteran of the department and most recently has worked as a post supervisor assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop H. Special Agent (Corporal) Ken Whillock, 45, of Gentry, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Whillock will be assigned to a supervisory position in CID, Company D, headquartered at Fort Smith. He is a 17 year veteran of the department and most recently has worked as a field agent assigned to CID, Company D. Corporal Elvis Mull, 44, of Little Rock, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Mull will be assigned to a post supervisor position in Highway Patrol Division, Troop A, headquartered at Little Rock. He is a 14 year veteran of the department most recently assigned to patrol duties in Troop A. Corporal John “Scott” Joe, 42, of Royal, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Joe will be assigned to post supervisor duties in Highway Patrol Division, Troop H, headquartered at Fort Smith. He is a 14 year veteran of the department most recently assigned to patrol duties in Troop K, headquartered in Hot Springs. Corporal Ben Cross, 43, of Dover, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Cross will be assigned to post supervisor duties in Highway Patrol Division, Troop J, headquartered at Clarksville. He is a 17 year veteran of the department most recently assigned to patrol duties in Troop J. Corporal Chad Hipps, 41, of Berryville, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Hipps will be assigned to post supervisor duties in Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, headquartered at Springdale. He is a 14 year veteran of the department most recently assigned to patrol duties in Troop L. Corporal Daniel Nichols, 42, of Clarksville, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Nichols will be assigned to post supervisor duties in Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, headquartered at Springdale. He is a 15 year veteran of the department most recently assigned to patrol duties in Troop J. Corporal Michael Wallace 39, of Benton, was promoted to the rank of sergeant. Sergeant Wallace will be assigned to the department’s Regulatory and Building Operations Division, Maintenance and Inmate Services Section in Little Rock. He is a 13 year veteran of the department most recently assigned to the Administrative Services Division, Training Section.

(LITTLE ROCK) - The Arkansas State Police Commission will meet convene in a called session today (January 30, 2013) at 10:30 AM.  The meeting will be conducted by a telephone conference call.

The purpose of the meeting is to consider a disciplinary matter involved a State Police employee.

The open session portion of the conference call can be monitored from the Director's Office Conference Room at State Police Headquarters.

______________________

The Arkansas State Police Commission has approved the recommendations for promotions of two veteran Arkansas State Troopers. The recommendations were presented today by Colonel State Witt, Director of the Arkansas State Police, during a regular monthly commission meeting.

Sergeant Forrest Marks, 42, of Hot Springs, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and assumes duties as assistant commander of Arkansas State Police, Highway Patrol Division, Troop K.

Lieutenant Marks is an 18 year veteran of the State Police and most recently was assigned to Highway Patrol, Troop K, Garland County as a post supervisor.

Corporal Christopher Waters, 44, of Alma, was promoted to the rank of sergeant and assumes duties as post supervisor in Crawford County, assigned to the Highway Patrol Division, Troop H.

Sergeant Waters is a 12 year veteran of the State Police and most recently was assigned to patrol duties in Troop H.

ARKANSAS SETS ZERO TOLERANCE FOR TEENS AND YOUNG ADULTS

LITTLE ROCK – The weekend of March 8th marks the beginning of two law enforcement operations that will occur over the next six weeks dedicated to identifying and arresting young drivers who may be drunk or impaired. The operations are being coordinated by the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office working with state, county and city law enforcement officers in a statewide effort to crackdown on drunk driving.

During the assignments scheduled for March 8th - 17th and April 12th - 21st, stepped-up patrols and an increased use of sobriety checkpoints will occur across Arkansas as part of a unified law enforcement plan to identify and arrest drunk drivers of all ages, but with a heightened alert on teenagers and college age individuals.

Arkansas’s Underage Driving Under the Influence (DUI) Law, makes it illegal for anyone under age twenty-one to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.02 and 0.07.

“For a young driver, this means one drink is all it takes to be impaired,” said Colonel Stan Witt, Director of the Arkansas State Police and the Governors Highway Safety Representative.

If an underage driver is apprehended with a BAC of .08 or greater, law enforcement officers are required to arrest the person under the Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) Law.

A DUI conviction can result in the loss of driving privileges, fines of up to $2,000, along with required community service. A teenager convicted of DWI faces the same criminal penalties as an adult, which includes jail sentencing, fines, court costs, license suspension, community service and other possible punishments. Insurance premiums for anyone convicted of DUI or DWI typically increases significantly.

“Impaired driving is not just another traffic offense, it’s a serious crime that often causes needless deaths and injuries,” Colonel Witt stated. “The message is simple to understand, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.”

The initiative purposely coincides with the spring season when many young people are on school breaks, celebrating proms and attending graduation parties.

Alcohol related fatalities involving individuals under the age of twenty-one increase during this particular time of year, according to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration. Nationwide, motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death among teenagers.

During 2011 there were 100 drivers under the age of 21 with positive blood-alcohol concentrations involved in motor vehicle crashes.

This year’s campaign seeks to raise awareness of the serious and deadly consequences of impaired driving for teens through heightened law enforcement activities and paid media. The overall message is one of deterrence, designed to make teens think twice about drinking and driving and risking their lives and those of their fellow motorists.

For more information on underage drinking prevention, visit www.TrafficSafetyMarketing.gov or contact the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136. For parents and caregivers who want to know more about keeping their teen driver safe, visit www.SaferTeenDrivingAr.org.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Ann Whitehead (501) 618-8133
ann.whitehead@asp.arkansas.gov

MULTI-VEHICLE FATALITY CRASH ALONG I-40 AT THE WHITE RIVER BRIDGE UNDER INVESTIGATION

  Arkansas State Troopers were dispatched at 7:50 AM today (Thursday, March 21st) to a report of a motor vehicle crash located in the eastbound lane of Interstate 40 in the vicinity of the White River Bridge (200 mile marker).

  One person died in the crash and at least a dozen other individuals were injured in what is described as a multi-vehicle crash.  Air and ground ambulances transported the injured to Stuttgart and Little Rock hospitals.

  Based on initial witness statements, State Troopers preliminarily suspect metal debris from the roadway had become airborne and impacted a vehicle which then stopped in the single lane of eastbound traffic, causing traffic from the rear of the first vehicle to slow and stop.  Seconds later a commercial carrier truck traveling behind the stopped vehicles impacted the blocked roadway causing a chain reaction crash.

  Both east and westbound traffic along I-40 through the area has been diverted to nearby state and U.S. highways to allow for the crash scene to be cleared and the investigation to continue.

  As of 3:30 PM, Troopers still at the crash scene were not anticipating the highway to re-open to traffic until 4:30 this afternoon.

STATE POLICE COMMISSION SETS APRIL MEETING

  The Arkansas State Police Commission will convene in session, Thursday, April 11th, 10 AM, at State Police Administrative Headquarters in Little Rock.
 

  The Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division has been requested to investigate a shooting incident overnight which left one man dead and a Bryant Police Officer wounded.

  Bryant Police responded to a burglar alarm at the Fred’s Store at 3395 State Highway 5 about 11 PM (Tuesday, April 2nd).  The first officer arriving at the store encountered an individual inside a fenced area along the west side of the building.

  As a second officer approached the store, an exchange of gunfire occurred between a suspect inside the fence and the fist officer.

  The first officer was wounded during the gunfire and transported to a Little Rock hospital where the officer was treated and released.  The suspect was fatally wounded and pronounced dead at an area hospital.

  The suspect has been identified as Thomas R. O'Dell, 41, of Trilla, Illinois and is believed to a murder fugitive wanted by Illinois authorities.

  An investigation of the officer involved shooting is underway and a case file is being prepared for consideration by the Saline County Prosecuting Attorney to determine if deadly force was used consistent with Arkansas law.

  Questions with regard to the wounded officer’s identity and administrative status should be directed to the Bryant Police Department.

  The body of a Warren woman who disappeared nine days ago was found today (Sunday, April 14th) in a grave near the home of a Monticello man known to be an acquaintance of the missing woman.

  Tangela Walton, 36, was reported missing by her family on April 5th after failing to return home.

  Warren Police subsequently asked Special Agents of the Arkansas State Police Criminal Investigation Division to assist in investigating the disappearance.

  Earlier today a suspect in the death of Walton directed authorities to the grave where her body was uncovered and later transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory.  The lab will conduct an autopsy of the body to determine manner and cause of the death.

  The suspect is being held tonight in a local jail pending a first appearance hearing and the filing of formal charges later tomorrow.

Contact:  Ann Whitehead
Highway Safety Office
Phone: (501) 618-8133
eMail: ann.whitehead@asp.arkansas.gov

BUCKLE UP, EVERY TRIP, EVERY TIME

Arkansas motorists reminded to “click it” during holiday travel
 

  (LITTLE ROCK) – When motorists take to the roads this Memorial Day holiday period, the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office urges everyone to buckle up.

  State, county and city law enforcement officers will begin devoting additional patrols on May 20th to the national “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement campaign which is commissioned to crack down on motorists who are not using seat belts.

  “As we kick-off the busy summer driving season, it’s important that everyone buckle up on every trip, every time, both day and night – no excuses,” said Colonel Stan Witt, Director of the Arkansas State Police and Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. “Our troopers are committed to this lifesaving initiative and prepared to ticket anyone not wearing their seat belt."

  According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 52 percent of 21,253 passenger vehicle occupants killed in 2011 were not wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash.

  Deaths involving individuals not wearing seat belts are more prevalent at night than during daylight hours.  During the 2011 reporting period, 62 percent of the 10,135 passenger vehicle occupants killed during the overnight hours (6 PM to 5:59 AM) were not wearing their seat belts at the time of the motor vehicle crashes.

  Crash investigation reports from 2011 document the same trend in Arkansas, indicating a 64 percent increase in nighttime fatalities among those not wearing seat belts compared to 48 percent during daylight hours.

  “Seat belts save thousands of lives every year, but far too many motorists are still not buckling up, especially at night when the risk of a crash is even greater,” said Colonel Witt. “We want everyone to have a safe summer, but it requires an important step on the part of motorists, clicking the seat belt.”

  In 2011, seat belts saved an estimated 11,949 lives nationwide, according to NHTSA.  While this year’s Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization runs from May 20 through June 2nd, officers are enforcing seat belt laws year round.

  For more on the Click It or Ticket mobilization, visit www.nhtsa.gov or contact the Arkansas State Police Highway Safety Office at (501) 618-8136.

STATE TROOPERS SECURE KIDNAPPED CHILD
DURING WEST MEMPHIS TRAFFIC STOP

Arkansas State Troopers have secured a two-year girl believed to have been kidnapped earlier today from Sandy Springs, Georgia.

A 30 year old suspect in the kidnapping was also taken into custody during a traffic stop along an Interstate 40 service road in West Memphis.

Arkansas State Troopers received a law enforcement bulletin earlier in the afternoon from Georgia authorities who believed the suspect may be traveling through Arkansas with the child inside a 2006 Range Rover.

State Police Sergeant David Moore and Corporal Lowry Astin moved highway patrol troopers into the West Memphis area to be on the lookout for the suspect vehicle.

At approximately 3:25 PM Corporal Flarcell Tate spotted the vehicle and initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of the West Memphis dog racing track.  The child was turned-over by State Police to the Arkansas Department of Human Services and Georgia law enforcement authorities were notified of the suspect being held by State Troopers.

Further information with regard to any criminal charges that may be pending against the suspect and information about the kidnapped child should be directed to the Sandy Springs (Georgia) Police Department at (770) 551-6900.

STATE TROOPERS HONORED AT DEPARTMENT AWARDS CEREMONY
TROOPER OF THE YEAR AND CIVILIAN OF THE YEAR RECOGNIZED

(Click on image for high resolution file)

May 21, 2013

  (LITTLE ROCK) – Arkansas State Trooper (Corporal) Pete Penney, 38, of Nashville was presented with the Arkansas State Police Trooper of the Year Award today during the department’s annual awards ceremony.  Corporal Penney was also presented the department’s Medal of Valor.

  The recognition of Corporal Penney stems from a March 23, 2012 traffic stop involving a suspected drunk driver along U.S. Highway 278, north of Ozan (Hempstead County).

  Following a field sobriety test, Corporal Penney attempted to arrest the suspect who resisted and began to fight.  After several minutes of attempting to gain control of the suspect Corporal Penney radioed for assistance at which time the suspect returned to his car.  As Corporal Penney approached the car, the suspect reached out holding a white plastic bag which contained a revolver and fired into the trooper’s abdomen.

  Corporal Penney was able to return fire from his service weapon, wounding the suspect.

  Corporal Penney is a nine-year veteran of the department and continues to serve the department assigned to the Highway Patrol Division.

  Among the other awards presented today were:

•    Medal of Valor
     Sergeant Darran Austin, 36 of Dardanelle
     Highway Patrol Division, Troop J
     Special Agent Todd Shaw, 41, of Melbourne
     Criminal Investigation Division, Company E

  In the aftermath of an April 13, 2012 bank robbery in Paragould, a suspect fled from law enforcement officers and managed to enter a residence where he barricaded himself along with a female acquaintance.

  The Arkansas State Police SWAT responded to the stand-off situation which continued into the evening and early morning hours of the next day.

  At approximately 1:30 AM (April 14th) the suspect escaped from the residence through a hole he cut through the floor.  The suspect managed to move into a nearby wooded area where he was tracked by a law enforcement K-9 dog.

  Simultaneously a spotter inside the State Police helicopter hovering above the area spotted a heat signature on a forward-looking infrared camera.

  Shortly before 4 AM the aircraft spotter alerted Sergeant Austin and S/A Shaw who were moving through the thick woods where the suspect was believed to be hiding.

  As the troopers moved closer to the suspect he fired on Sergeant Austin causing both troopers to return fire killing the suspect.

•    Medal of Valor
     Sergeant Mark Johnson, 49, North Little Rock
     Highway Patrol Division, Troop A

  On October 18, 2012, Sergeant Mark Johnson became involved in a pursuit of a suspect wanted in connection with an attempted murder, kidnapping and auto theft.

  As the pursuit continued across Interstate 40 and onto a two-lane highway, Sergeant Johnson made the decision to execute a Precision Immobilization Technique (PIT) in an effort to stop the increasing threat the fugitive was causing as the fled from law enforcement officers.

  Moving into position with the right front of his patrol car to push the left rear bumper of the suspect vehicle, the suspect fired a shotgun blast at Sergeant Johnson who continued with the PIT maneuver forcing the suspect off the highway into an open field where the suspect surrendered.

•    Trooper’s Cross
     Corporal Michael Bowman, 42 of Van Buren
     Highway Patrol Division – Troop H

  On the evening of January 31, 2012, a murder was reported in Franklin County and law enforcement officers began to converge on Highway 219 north of Ozark.

  Corporal Michael Bowman was off-duty at Troop H headquarters in Fort Smith when he heard the radio call reporting a suspect had been identified and information was leading officers to begin searching in the Van Buren area.

  Being familiar with the local area, Corporal Bowman left headquarters and began to patrol one of the neighborhoods where the suspect was possibly headed in an attempt to hide from police.

  Corporal Bowman quickly encountered a vehicle pulling away from a residence in a reckless manner.  As Corporal Bowman activated his blue lights, the vehicle began to race toward the patrol car, causing a collision of both vehicles and two individuals from the suspect vehicle immediately fleeing the crash scene on foot.

  Corporal Bowman exited the patrol car and pursued the suspects taking both into custody.   The two individuals were later identified as the suspects in the earlier reported murder.

•    Distinguished Meritorious Service
     Corporal Christopher Goodman, 37, of Russellville
     Highway Patrol Division, Troop J

  Corporal Goodman was recognized for his drug interdiction patrol efforts which during the course of July – September 2012 seized 154 pounds of cocaine, 5.5 pounds of heroin and 176 pounds of marijuana.

  Total street value of the drugs was in excess of $6.75 million dollars.

•    Lifesaving Award
     Trooper First Class Terry Burdin, 36, of Rector
     Highway Patrol Division – Troop C

  On April 26, 2012 Trooper First Class Terry Burdin responded to a radio call from another trooper near Paragould.  A burglary suspect had fled from the trooper and was armed with a shotgun, threatening to commit suicide.

  As TFC Burdin approached the location the suspect shot himself, nearly severing an arm.

  TFC Burdin assessed the injuries and began to establish an oral airway as the suspect became unresponsive.  Bleeding was controlled using supplies from TFC Burdin’s medical bag.

  The suspect was flown to a Memphis Hospital where doctors later stated had it not been for the quick medical attention offered by TFC Burdin, the suspect would have died.

•    Lifesaving Award
     Corporal Wilson Short, 35, of Dardanelle
     Highway Patrol Division – Troop J

  On April 15, 2012, Corporal Wilson Short was dispatched to the Arkansas River Bridge near Dardanelle where an individual was reported to be threatening to take his life.

  Corporal Short had encountered the individual on previous occasions and was able to build a rapport by talking to the man and convincing him to move away from the bridge railing.

  Later, Corporal Short took the man to a nearby restaurant where the two ate a meal together, then transported him to a local social service to receive overnight accommodations.

•    Lifesaving Award
     Corporal Dustin Rogers, 43, of Evening Shade
     Highway Patrol Division – Troop B

  On April 12, 2012,at approximately 11:49 AM Corporal Dustin Rogers was advised by Sharp County authorities of a medical emergency in Evening Shade.

  An 80-year-old man had sustained a heart attack at his residence.  Corporal Rogers responded to the area and found several people standing over a man outside his home.

  After checking the victim for vital indicators and finding none, Corporal Rogers began CPR and continued until the ambulance arrived almost eight minutes later.

•    Lifesaving Award
     Corporal Robert Alcon, 55, of Vilonia
     Highway Patrol Division – Troop K

  On June 27, 2012 Corporal Robert Alcon witnessed a motor vehicle crash while on patrol in Grant County along U.S. Highway 167 about 5 miles north of Sheridan.

  The single vehicle crash left a woman trapped underneath an overturned sport utility vehicle.

  It was Corporal Alcon who mustered a group of other drivers who had stopped following the crash to move toward the wreckage and begin to lift the vehicle allowing the victim to be removed.

  The victim sustained life threatening injuries from the crash and was transported to a Little Rock hospital where she survived.  Doctors who treated the victim say had it not been for the effort of Corporal Alcon the victim would have died.

•    Arkansas State Police Civilian of the Year (2012)
     Kerry Tabor, 49, of Beebe, Director’s Office
     Information Technology Section

  Kerry Tabor is a thirteen-year veteran of the department, assigned to the Information Technology Section.

  During the preceding year Tabor has directed the development and implementation of the State Police disaster recovery plan.

  Tabor has been instrumental in the deployment of a new patrol car camera system and system configuration of the developing eCite and eCrash reporting systems.

  The technological knowledge exhibited by Tabor has provided a solid footing for the Arkansas State Police to move forward with new computer based services which were only a dream of law enforcement twenty years ago.

  Tabor’s pride in the Arkansas State Police is persistently found in his work product which is designed to always improve functionality of patrol car electronic and computer systems, but more importantly, increase the safety level for the Arkansas State Troopers using the equipment. 

•    Distinguished Service Award
     Deputy Travis Turner – Howard County Sheriff’s Department
     Patrolman Justin Thornton – Nashville Police Department

  On March 23, 2012 Deputy Turner and Patrolman Thornton were the first law enforcement officer to arrive along a stretch of U.S. Highway 278, north of Ozan (Hempstead County) to render aid to Arkansas State Trooper Pete Penney who had been shot and wounded by a suspect he was attempting to arrest.

  The two officers left their respective patrol assignments to respond to Trooper Penney’s radio call for help.

  Both officers exhibited bravery and a readiness to render aid to Trooper Penney who had taken cover after exchanging gunfire with the suspect.

  Neither officer was aware of the location of the armed suspect and disregarded their own safety to take control of the scene, begin applying first aid to Trooper Penney and taking the suspect into custody.

•    Distinguished Service Award
     Paul Hunt – Nebraska City, Nebraska
     Charles Sachs – Plattsmouth, Nebraska

  On March 4, 2012, Paul Hunt and Charles Sachs were traveling along U.S. Highway 270 in Montgomery County, when they came upon a motor vehicle crash.

  Both men left their vehicles and began to approach a burning car where the voice of a woman could be heard screaming, “Please don’t let me burn.”

  Hunt and Sachs were able to extricate the woman from the wreckage only seconds before the gas tank exploded, engulfing the wreckage in a fireball.

•    Distinguished Service Award
     Michael Nash – Traskwood, Arkansas

  On September 11, 2012, at approximately 7:00 AM a vehicle traveling west on Interstate 630 lost a wheel from the left front, which struck the concrete dividing wall, bounced, and crashed through the windshield of an eastbound vehicle, instantly killing the driver.

  The eastbound vehicle continued moving at an increasing speed, crisscrossing lanes of rush hour traffic.

  Michael Nash who was witnessing the event unfold, maneuvered his vehicle into position to allow the runway car to crash into his and guided his vehicle and the other to a stop along a retaining wall.

  By risking his own life and with disregard for his own property, Nash is credited with saving an untold number of lives traveling along the Interstate highway.

  During today’s awards ceremony the recipients of State Police Departmental Commendations were recognized.  During the previous year the following State Police personnel were awarded official commendations and recognized by the Arkansas State Police Commission.

•   Sergeant Jim Moore – Highway Patrol Division, Aircraft Section

•   Corporal Eric Henson – Highway Patrol Division, Troop K

•   Trooper Thomas Hubbard – Highway Patrol Division, Troop D

•   Telecom Operator Chanda Martin – Highway Patrol Division, Troop G

•   Special Agent Mitch Carolan – Criminal Investigation Division, Company D

•   Corporal Vic Coleman – Highway Patrol Division – Drug Interdiction Unit

•   Trooper First Class Marcus Daniels – Highway Patrol Division, Troop A

•   Trooper First Class Antoine Williams – Highway Patrol Division, Troop A

•   Trooper First Class Heath Nelson – Highway Patrol Division, Troop A

•   Trooper First Class Alan Johnson – Highway Patrol Division, Troop A

•   Special Agent Scott Clark – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent Dennis Morris – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent Hays McWhirter – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent Scotty Dodd – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent David Rider – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   S/A Shannon Shepherd – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent Corwin Battle – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent Louis Imler – Criminal Investigation Division, Company C

•   Special Agent Larry Carter – Criminal Investigation Division, Company E

•   Special Agent Bryan McAllister – Criminal Investigation Division, Company D

•   Special Agent Dwane Luter – Criminal Investigation Division, Company E
 

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STATE POLICE RECRUITS SWORN-IN
AT CAPITOL GRADUATION CEREMONY

NEW TROOPERS ASSIGNED TO HIGHWAY PATROL DUTIES

June 6, 2013

  (LITTLE ROCK) – Twenty-five Arkansas State Police Trooper Recruits graduated tonight during ceremonies at the Arkansas State Capitol.

  The recruits received the Oath of State Trooper Commission from the Honorable Mark A. Pate, White County District Judge, Searcy Division.

  The recruit class initially reported for duty on January 20th this year.  Since then each class member has accumulated 1,044 hours of classroom studies and practical training. The recruits are eligible for 41 college credit hours toward a Criminal Justice degree from Black River Technical College at Pocahontas.

  Christopher R. Thyer, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, was the keynote speaker addressing the graduates and Colonel Stan Witt, Director of the Arkansas State Police, presented the new troopers their commissions.

  Other dignitaries present included representatives of the Arkansas State Police Commission and State Police Division, Troop and Company commanders.

  Graduates of the 2013 class are:

•     Richard Thomas Pickers, 37, of Horn Lake, Mississippi, who served as 2013 Recruit School Class Leader, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop I, Baxter County.  Recruit Pickers is a graduate of Horn Lake High School (DeSoto County), Mississippi and is a United States Navy veteran.

•     Herbert Glen Bates, Jr., 33, of El Dorado, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop J, Conway County.  Recruit Bates is a graduate of El Dorado High School and is an Arkansas Air National Guard veteran.

•     Mark Austin Blackerby, 27, of Malvern, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop E, Jefferson County.  Recruit Blackerby is a graduate of Malvern High School and is a United States Army Reserve veteran.

•     Stephen Derrick Briggs, 29, of Little Rock, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop C, Mississippi County.  Recruit Briggs is a graduate of J.A. Fair High School and is an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran.

•     Timothy Scott Callison, 25, of Malvern, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop H, Sebastian County.  Recruit Callison is a graduate of Malvern High School and is an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran.

•     Dustin Hurley Carpenter, 25, of Batesville, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop E, Desha County.  Recruit Carpenter is a graduate of Batesville High School and Arkansas Tech University.

•     Drake Benjamin Champagne, 23, of Arkadelphia, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop G, Miller County.  Recruit Champagne is a graduate of Arkadelphia High School and Henderson State University.

•     Lagarian Rodriguez Cross, 28, of Fordyce, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop F, Drew County.  Recruit Cross is a graduate of Fordyce High School.

•     Christopher Shaun Davenport, 35, of Rector, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop C, Poinsett County. Recruit Davenport is a graduate of Rector High School and Arkansas State University.  He an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran.

•     Taylor Scott Elkins, 24, of Omaha (Boone County), will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop J, Van Buren County.  Recruit Elkins is a graduate of Omaha High School and is a U.S. Navy veteran.

•     Matthew Kyle Foster, 23, of Alma will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, St. Francis County.  Recruit Foster is a graduate of Alma High School and Arkansas State University.

•     Bo Reubin Hayes, 33, of Cove (Polk County) will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop H, Franklin County.  Recruit Hayes is a graduate of Van-Cove High School.

•     Isaac Benjamin Holley, 27, of Southaven, Mississippi will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Phillips County.  Recruit Holley is a graduate of Southaven High School, Delta State University, Cleveland, Mississippi and is an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran.

•     Nicholas Ryan Holley, 26, of Jonesboro, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop C, Mississippi County.  Recruit Holley is a graduate of Nettleton High School and a U.S. Army Reserve veteran.

•     Charles Pierce LaCaze, 41, of Winnfield, Louisiana, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop F, Ashley County.  Recruit LaCaze is a graduate of Winnfield High School.

•     Kristopher Michael McCrea, 28, of Clarendon, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Monroe County.  Recruit McCrea is a graduate of Clarendon High School.

•     Andrew Travis May, 27, of Conroe, Texas, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop J, Conway County.  Recruit May is a graduate of Conroe (TX) High School, University of Arkansas – Little Rock and a U.S. Marine veteran.

•     Aaron Paul Middleton, 24, of Jasper (Newton County), will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, Madison County.  Recruit Middleton is a graduate of Jasper High School, John Brown University and an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran.

•     Gabriel Jonathan Monroe, 23, of North Little Rock will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Crittenden County.  Recruit Monroe is a home schooled graduate and a U.S. Army Reserve veteran.

•     Dennis Jason Murphy, 37, of Cherry Valley (Cross County) will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, St. Francis County.  Recruit Murphy is a graduate of Cross County High School.

•     Gordon Joseph Seawood, 23, of Pine Bluff, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop E, Lincoln County.  Recruit Seawood is a graduate of Pine Bluff High School and a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve veteran.

•     Dustin Thomas Smith, 25, of Cave City (Sharp County) will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop I, Fulton County.  Recruit Smith is a graduate of Cave City High School and is an Arkansas Army National Guard veteran.

•     James Dallas Taylor, 31, of Hazen, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop D, Phillips County.  Recruit Taylor is a graduate of Hazen High School.

•     Joshua Dean Whitney, 24, of Pearcy (Garland County), will be assigned to Highway Patrol, Troop H, Sebastian County.  Recruit Whitney is a graduate of Lake Hamilton High School.

•     Drew Hansen Widner, 22, of Hartville, Missouri, will be assigned to Highway Patrol Division, Troop L, Madison County.  Recruit Widner is a graduate of Hartville (Missouri) High School and a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve veteran.

Special recognition and awards in the categories of academics, physical fitness and firearms were presented to the following class members:

•     Academics –
1st place Recruit Nick Holley 2nd place Recruit Timothy Callison 3rd place Recruit Isaac Holley.

•     Physical Fitness –
1st place Recruit Joshua Whitney 2nd place Recruit Drew Widner 3rd place Recruit Draca Champagne.

•     Firearms –
1st place Recruit Bo Hayes 2nd place Recruit Richard Pickers 3rd place Recruit Kristopher McCrea.

  Upon reporting for duty at their respective troop headquarters, the new troopers will be placed with a certified departmental Field Training Officer (FTO). Each graduate will work in tandem with their respective FTO for a twelve-week transitional period prior to being released to their assignment.