Bill Protects Officers Statewide

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders recently signed a bill creating a new Arkansas law which creates a separate felony charge when an offender either attempts to or disarms an officer with the intent to cause harm to the officer or the public.

The bill was created by retired Lieutenant Jim Scott of the North Little Rock Police Department, who has continued his service working for the City of North Little Rock in the City Clerk’s Office. Arkansas joins other states like Texas and California who have adapted this powerful law to help protect our officers.

Representative Carlton Wing sponsored and introduced House Bill 1521. Senator Kim Hammer as well as Representatives Jamie Scott and Danny Watson joined in the sponsorship.

“Creating this bill and watching it become law is a way for me to give back to our state and community after 33 years of law enforcement work. This law will increase the safety of our brave public servants,” shared Lieutenant Scott.

The North Little Rock Justice Center was recently recognized by Officer Magazine, a national publication, with the Gold Award for the design of efficient spaces which provides an opportunity for a more unified police staff. The Gold Award was presented to the City of North Little Rock for the focus on public safety and the resources provided to our community. Officer Magazine acknowledged our growth as a city and the significance of our law enforcement officers. One of the main components of the Justice Center’s design is the state-of-the-art training spaces, one of which was used this past March as an Emergency Operations Center after the devastating tornado. The North Little Rock Justice Center has become an integral part of our city.