Arkansas Governor speaks about rise in violence in Little Rock

Little Rock, Arkansas – On Monday, Governor Hutchinson held a press conference to try to answer some questions on what state leaders are doing to get a better grip on violent crime.

“Questions have arisen as to, what is the state doing to make sure that our laws are enforced and that we get a better handle on violent crime,” stated Gov. Hutchinson.

According to Gov. Hutchinson, the main way the state is helping reduce violence is, “we had the Power Ultra shooting back in 2017 here in Little Rock and as a result of that, we started the gang enforcement taskforce”.

Next, about the funds for prison expansion in the state, reducing backup in local jails by 30%. “They set aside $75 million to build a new prison, why is this important is because you have to have prison space for violent offenders,” said Gov. Hutchinson.

Gov. Hutchinson also talked about the intensive supervision program where officers keep a close eye on those on parole. “We have those that are out on parole and if they have a history of aggravated offenses, even though they have been released from custody, they are out on parole, we want to make sure we have the resources to keep a good eye on them,” said Gov. Hutchinson.

He also addressed funds to help alleviate case backup from the pandemic, and mental health efforts for law enforcement officers transitioning to different positions. “Police can divert from the jail system into mental health units where they can get the support that they need,” said Gov. Hutchinson.

Regarding enhanced penalties for a convicted felon who has a firearm, a new law was mentioned.

According to the director of Arkansas State Police (ASP), Bill Bryant, ASP has helped local law enforcement get 310 firearms off the street, 30 of them being fully automatic.

According to Bryant, there is not a clear motive or any other charges made in regards to the shootings from two weekends ago.