ALC - Game - Fish-State Police [Source] Translate

The meeting began with the chair confirming a quorum and calling the session to order. The Arkansas State Police, represented by Colonel Mike Hager and other officials, discussed the impact of recent legislation on individuals fleeing from law enforcement. The chair expressed concerns about the rising number of people fleeing police, noting that this behavior was previously a misdemeanor but has been elevated to a Class D felony, with enhanced penalties for those exiting moving vehicles while fleeing. Colonel Hager reported a 29% decrease in pursuits from 2023 to 2025, attributing this to the new legislation and public awareness campaigns. He noted an increase of 120 troopers, which contributed to fewer crashes and more arrests for hazardous activities. Committee members inquired about the legislation's effectiveness, the locations of pursuits, and prosecution rates. Hager confirmed an increase in prosecutions since the legislation's enactment and a commitment from prosecutors to pursue these cases. The discussion included the need for future legislation to prevent plea deals that reduce fleeing charges to misdemeanors. An incident involving a tactical vehicle intervention that mistakenly targeted an innocent family was mentioned, with Hager confirming no injuries and the termination of the involved officer. The meeting also covered the decertification process for law enforcement officers, highlighting that most decertifications (90-95%) relate to integrity issues, such as lying or failing to disclose information. Director Chris Chapman explained the decertification process, emphasizing the importance of agencies submitting separation forms to flag potential issues. He noted an increase in decertification requests due to improved communication and education. Concerns were raised about handling citizen complaints against officers, with one senator sharing a personal experience of harassment that went unaddressed. Chapman acknowledged the importance of these complaints but clarified that investigations often stem from separation documents rather than direct citizen reports. He mentioned that while they do not investigate criminal aspects of complaints, they collaborate with local agencies when necessary. An appeal process for decertified officers exists, typically handled in circuit court, with fewer than six appeals in the past three years. The meeting concluded with appreciation for the director's efforts in maintaining law enforcement integrity and a mention of a future meeting planned for March at a fish hatchery. The meeting was then adjourned.