The city of Pine Bluff formally announced the separation of Police Chief Denise Richardson on Tuesday, marking the end of her dedicated service to the community.
Richardson was dismissed from her position Monday. Deputy Chief Shirley Warrior was sworn in as acting police chief the following day.
According to the release from the office of Mayor Vivian Flowers, Richardson has been a pivotal figure in the Pine Bluff Police Department, contributing significantly to the city’s public safety initiatives through her leadership, commitment, and focus on law enforcement and community engagement.
Flowers expressed gratitude for Chief Richardson’s service, stating:”We are grateful for Chief Richardson’s service and leadership over the years. Her contributions to the department and her tireless work ethic have been integral to our efforts in enhancing public safety in Pine Bluff. We wish her the best in all future endeavors and sincerely thank her for her service to the city.”
According to the release, the decision to separate from Richardson was made in accordance with Section 14-42-110 of the Arkansas Code, which grants the mayor the authority to make changes in appointed department heads when necessary. According to Flowers, Warrior’s steady leadership is expected to guide the department through this transition period. An interim chief will be appointed to maintain smooth operations and prioritize public safety.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“Acting chief for the next 20 to 30 days is Chief Shirley Warrior,” said Flowers. “An interim will be appointed within 30 days from today.”
From there, Flowers said, she will engage in a search to be completed within a year, as interims can only work in that capacity for no more than 12 months.
Richardson’s departure from her position left behind a wave of reactions from both members of the police department and the community. Richardson shared a statement on the Pine Bluff PD Facebook page, expressing her honor in serving as chief and thanking both the department and the community for their support.
“To the men and women of PBPD, sworn and non-sworn, I consider you the best in the game, and I am honored to have served as your Chief,” Richardson stated. “My mind, my path forward, and most importantly, my conscience is clear. Continue to serve with dignity and respect, and watch your six. Love you all.”
She also addressed the community, saying, “I was privileged to work for all of you and I am proud of the progress we’ve made together. … A chapter ended, is not a book closed.”
The announcement has prompted numerous responses on social media, with many expressing disappointment and praise for Richardson’s leadership. Jenina Wallace commented, “I think this is a wrong choice … it seems like she brought the morale up … Chief Richardson, your assignment is done, and the Lord has something else in store for you.”
Rachel Saunders described Richardson as “a rare gem in policing leadership,” adding, “Chief, you are ethical, transparent, humble, selfless, and a tremendous example of integrity and excellence. Huge loss for Pine Bluff and a treasure for the next door that opens.”
Within the police department, officers also shared their sentiments. Chris Kendrick expressed gratitude, saying, “To my Chief, thank you for believing in me and making me a better police officer… Your leadership has left a lasting impact, and I am truly grateful.”
Karla Wieland, whose husband works for the PBPD, emphasized the family-like atmosphere within the department, stating, “Unless you are a part of the profession, you never quite understand just how much of a family everyone becomes. I am very proud to know you.”
Lieutenant DeShawn Bennett, Vice President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 2, shared his personal feelings, saying: “Chief Richardson has been more than a leader to me … she’s been a mentor, an inspiration, and a steady presence in times of uncertainty.” He added, “Praying for Chief Richardson as she faces this unexpected and difficult transition.”
Brian Bradley noted the potential implications of the change, commenting, “Changes are always going to happen with a new mayor, just like a new owner in a business. However, what they soon learn is that they made a mistake and will regret it one day when things get worse.”
The Pine Bluff Fraternal Order of Police released an official statement Tuesday morning regarding the recent termination of Richardson. The statement, issued by Sergeant Shanee Jackson, President of the Pine Bluff Fraternal Order of Police, expresses strong disagreement with the decision made by Flowers.
According to the statement, Richardson, appointed on July 20, 2022, led the Pine Bluff Police Department through a transformative period marked by significant improvements in public safety, officer morale, and community trust. Her tenure saw a reduction in overall crime by 11%, achieved through a renewed focus on community policing and strategic internal initiatives. Additionally, the department earned State Accreditation for the first time in its history, dating back to 1839.
The statement goes on to say that, under Richardson’s leadership, several key initiatives were implemented to enhance the department’s effectiveness and officer well-being. These included a take-home car policy, wellness programs, peer support initiatives, and a restructuring of shift scheduling to improve work-life balance and maximize coverage during high-crime hours. She also secured lateral pay ordinances to attract certified officers and spearheaded comprehensive policy revisions with new training and accreditation systems.
“One of her major accomplishments was the launch of the Real Time Crime Center, designed to revolutionize real-time response and data-driven policing in Pine Bluff,” said Jackson. “Chief Richardson prioritized public communication and transparency through a new interactive website and revamped social media presence. She also directed the successful re-entry of the PBPD Vice Unit into the Tri-County Drug Task Force, enhancing regional collaboration. “
Jackson goes on to list Richardson’s accolades in the statement, including introducing modern tech tools such as IAPRO BLUE TEAM for accountability, e-Cite/e-Crash systems, new drones, and upgraded patrol bikes. She also implemented new grooming standards, upgraded uniforms, and led impactful community programs like Shop with a Cop and the re-launch of Bike Patrol.
“The Pine Bluff Fraternal Order of Police stands fully behind Chief Richardson, praising her vision and drive that left the city’s law enforcement infrastructure stronger, more accountable, and more connected to the citizens it serves,” said Jackson. “The organization remains committed to advocating for integrity, transparency, and progress within the department.”
Then-Pine Bluff Police Deputy Chief Shirley Warrior talks with Watson Chapel High School students during a presentation on April 1, 2021. Warrior was promoted to acting chief Monday, March 25, 2025. (Pine Bluff Commercial/I.C. Murrell)