July 10, 2026

CONTACT

Aric Mitchell 

479-709-5000

info@fortsmithpd.org

STATEMENT FROM POLICE CHIEF DANNY BAKER

Fort Smith, AR - The Fort Smith Police Department recognizes that many members of our community have expressed concern about a growing number of hateful and alarming comments being shared online, as well as the increasingly disruptive behavior that has occurred during some City Board meetings.

Fort Smith has always been a community where people care deeply about local issues. We understand that residents will have differing opinions, and we believe that respectful dialogue is an important part of a healthy community.

The Constitution protects the right to free speech, even when the views expressed are unpopular or offensive. Those protections also limit when law enforcement can take action regarding online speech. While we cannot investigate or enforce the law based solely on speech that is protected by the First Amendment, we take every report of concerning online content seriously. Our department reviews each report individually, evaluates the information available in light of the law, and takes appropriate action based on our review and evaluation of the information with prosecutorial officials.

Likewise, we remain committed to ensuring that City Board meetings are conducted in a manner that allows everyone the opportunity to participate safely and lawfully. Passionate disagreement is a normal part of public discourse, but threats, intimidation, harassment, and disorderly conduct have no place in our community or our public meetings.

We encourage everyone to continue participating in conversations about the issues that matter to Fort Smith. We simply ask that those conversations remain respectful, even when opinions differ. Strong communities are built through honest dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to solving problems together.

The Fort Smith Police Department will continue to uphold the constitutional rights of every individual while fulfilling our responsibility to protect public safety. We appreciate the many residents who continue to report concerning behavior, engage respectfully with one another, and work alongside us to keep Fort Smith a safe and welcoming place for everyone.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to our community.

Danny L. Baker

Chief of Police