Editor’s note: This letter, posted on social media, was originally addressed to the citizens of Pine Bluff and families affected by recent investigations.
Editor, The Commercial,
The Pine Bluff Police Department recognizes the importance of timely and meaningful communication with the families of victims and individuals affected by criminal investigations. Recently, it has come to our attention that in certain cases, updates were not communicated to family members as effectively or as promptly as they should have been. In particular, this concern relates to investigations involving the death on South Oak Street and the missing person case involving William Hawkins.
On behalf of the Pine Bluff Police Department, I want to extend a sincere apology to the families who were impacted by the lack of communication regarding developments in these cases. We understand that during difficult and emotional circumstances, families deserve to be kept informed about investigative progress and any significant updates that arise. Our failure to consistently provide that communication does not reflect the level of service and professionalism we strive to deliver to the citizens of Pine Bluff.
The Pine Bluff Police Department remains fully committed to transparency and accountability. Moving forward, we are taking steps to ensure that families receive timely updates when developments occur in their loved ones’ cases. Our goal is to strengthen trust with the community and ensure that those directly affected by criminal investigations feel supported, informed and respected throughout the investigative process.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
We appreciate the patience and understanding of the families involved, and we remain dedicated to doing better in the future. The Pine Bluff Police Department will continue working diligently to serve this community with integrity, professionalism and compassion.
If any family members have questions or would like additional information regarding ongoing investigations, they are encouraged to contact the Pine Bluff Police Department Detective Bureau.
Sincerely,
Chief Shawn Davis
Pine Bluff Police Department