SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT, Fort Smith Police Detective Named Sebastian County Officer of the Year

Fort Smith, Arkansas sent this bulletin at 12/12/2025 03:07 PM CST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 12, 2025

CONTACT

Aric Mitchell

479-709-5000

info@fortsmithpd.org

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

Fort Smith Police Detective Named Sebastian County Officer of the Year

Fort Smith, AR - On Thursday, Dec. 11, Fort Smith Police Det. Eric Restine was recognized as the 2025 Sebastian County Officer of the Year by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin. Det. Restine joined an elite group of Officers from other counties statewide for the ceremony held in Benton, Ark., at the Benton Events Center.

Detective Restine was nominated because of his extensive and proactive contributions to public safety over the past year. For example, while off-duty, he responded immediately to a double shooting on Dec. 23, 2024, bringing with him vital background knowledge of the suspects.

His investigative work led to securing warrants for the individuals involved and ensuring they were charged appropriately. He also coordinated directly with Fort Smith Public Schools Police Department to ensure the district was informed and prepared, strengthening communication channels that protect students and staff.

Additionally, Judge Zuerker specifically sought Det. Restine’s assistance with the Arkansas Group Violence Intervention program because of his track record handling juvenile offenders. Throughout 2024, his detailed case knowledge, grounded in years of prior investigative work, proved instrumental in resolving violent incidents both in Fort Smith and in other jurisdictions across the state, including Fayetteville, Springdale, Conway, and Little Rock.

"Detective Eric Restine represents the highest standards of our profession," said Fort Smith Chief of Police Danny Baker. "His work this past year—from solving a violent shooting involving known offenders, to strengthening communication with our schools, to assisting agencies across Arkansas—has consistently put the safety of our community first. Detective Restine’s dedication, initiative, and humility reflect the very best of the Fort Smith Police Department. We are proud to see him recognized as the 2025 Sebastian County Officer of the Year."

Join us in congratulating Det. Restine for his vital service to our community!

Eric Restine and Arkansas AG Tim Griffin

Det. Eric Restine and Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin

From L to R: Sgt. Danny Stanley, Det. Restine, Chief Danny Baker, Deputy Chief Jason Thompson, and Captain Dewey Young

Wife Malorie Restine and Eric

Eric with Children Wendy, Patrick, and Allie

Left to Right: Wendy, Eric, Patrick, and Alison

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