The Dallas police shootings have already begun the expected ripple across the country, including in Little Rock.
Little Rock Police Chief Kenton Buckner has scheduled a 1:30 p.m. news conference for comment and to address what he said were plans for demonstrations in Little Rock today and Saturday by Black Lives Matter. UPDATE: He spoke extensively. Among others, he said criminal acts would not be tolerated by free speech rights would be protected.
A group gathered on the Capitol steps at noon today. A Facebook page for Black Lives Matter Little Rock says there will be a meeting at 6 p.m. today at Quapaw United Methodist Church.
Please come and join Black Lives Matter Little Rock as we grieve the murders of Alton Sterling, Philando Castile, Delrawn Small, and others. This will be a space for healing from the collective Black trauma of seeing the systematic murders of Black people. This is a call to grieve & the focus is healing. There will be an opportunity to discuss a call to action at the end of the night.
Pulaski Sheriff Doc Holladay issued a statement:
“On behalf of the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Pulaski County, we offer our sincere condolences to the Dallas Area Rapid Transit Police Department and the Dallas Police Department in the loss of their officers. These officers gave their lives doing what they were called to do and we as a community must support their families and those of law enforcement officers throughout this great nation.”
UPDATE: Gov. Asa Hutchinson issued a statement:
“My heart is with the City of Dallas, its people and the law enforcement community today. This was a senseless act of hatred – the deadliest attack on law enforcement since 9/11 – and should serve as a reminder that our first responders put themselves in harm’s way every day. We are grateful for their service and sacrifice.
“My prayers are with all the victims of violence from this last week. My hope for Arkansas is that we will be united in reducing violence, supporting law enforcement and restoring civility and respect in our communities.”