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Longest-serving police officer dies at 93

Longest-serving police officer dies at 93
L.C. "Buckshot" Smith, then an officer with the Camden Police Department, celebrates his 92nd birthday in Camden in this 2021 file photo. Smith, who retired from the Police Department at the age of 93 after more than 65 years of service to Camden, died Thursday, July 25, 2024, according to Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. (Arkansas Democrat-Gazette file photo)

L.C. “Buckshot” Smith, a retired officer of the Camden Police Department who served Camden residents for more than 65 years, died Thursday, according to Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr.

“At the remarkable age of 93, Officer Smith was celebrated as Arkansas’ longest-serving law enforcement officer, a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment to public service,” Woods said.

His memory will continue to be a guiding light for other law enforcement officers, he said.

“As the 32nd sheriff of Jefferson County and a commissioner on the Arkansas Law Enforcement Standards and Training Commission (CLEST), I extend my deepest condolences to the Smith Family. We are profoundly grateful for the years you shared L.C. ‘Buckshot’ Smith with the state of Arkansas and the law enforcement profession. His legacy of service, integrity, and community engagement has left an indelible mark on all who had the honor of working alongside him,” Woods said.

Smith’s contributions were beyond measure, inspiring countless officers to serve with the same dedication and compassion he exemplified throughout his storied career.

“Thank you, Officer Smith, for your unparalleled service and for being a pillar of strength and dedication in our community. We honor your legacy and will strive to uphold the high standards you set for all of us,” Woods said.