North Little Rock Police Face Scrutiny After Officers Like Racist Social Media Post

Community Outrage Prompts Department Investigation

The North Little Rock Police Department launched an investigation after several current officers liked a social media post containing racist slurs and derogatory remarks targeting the black community. Ebony D. Kimbrough, a community member who discovered the officers’ interactions with the post, immediately raised concerns through her own social media channels. The post, created by a former officer nearly a week ago, drew attention when Kimbrough noticed familiar names among those who had liked it.

Kimbrough took swift action by posting a screenshot and naming the officers involved. Her posts gained significant traction throughout the community. The volume of complaints prompted an official statement from the department on Wednesday night.

“When I first saw it I thought the internet was just being the internet, then I noticed some familiar likes. I’m like, surely not,” Kimbrough said while shaking her head.

“To see current police officers engaging with a post that contained racial slurs, derogatory remarks towards the black community, it just raised a concern for me,” Kimbrough said.

Department Response and Policy Review

Police officials confirmed they became aware of the issue on Wednesday morning after a formal complaint requested a full review. The department initiated a review of the complaint in accordance with established procedures. Officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining professional standards both on and off duty.

The North Little Rock Police Department released a statement acknowledging community concerns. The department holds its employees to high professional standards. Officials remain committed to providing fair, impartial, and professional service to every community member.

“The North Little Rock Police Department holds its employees to high professional standards, both on and off duty, and remains committed to providing fair, impartial, and professional service to every member of our community,” the release said in part.

Authorities have not yet specifically confirmed which post triggered the investigation. State law limits the information the department can publicly release because this matter involves personnel issues. The department provided no timetable for completing the investigation.

Community Demands Accountability Without Hostility

The controversy raised pressing questions about officer accountability and potential bias. Kimbrough expressed multiple concerns about the officers’ decision-making process. She wanted to understand their thought process behind liking the post.

“What was the thought process going on when you liked this post? Did you mean to like this post? Do you agree with this post, and if so, let’s talk about why?” Kimbrough said.

Community members now question whether officers practice what they promised during their oath of service. Kimbrough emphasized that the oath to protect and serve applies universally, not selectively. She stressed that officers must honor their commitment to all community members regardless of race or background.

Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Kimbrough clarified her intentions. Community members are not calling for punitive public humiliation of the officers involved. She simply wants officers to honor the oath they took.

Balanced Approach to Police Relations

“It’s not a put ’em all out and public shaming, but just honor the oath you took. That in itself is enough,” Kimbrough said.

The department’s statement addressed concerns involving professionalism, conduct, and public trust. Officials take such matters seriously and thoroughly review them through established procedures. The department follows both internal policy and applicable law when addressing employee conduct issues.

Kimbrough appreciated the accountability demonstrated by the police department. She expressed hope that officials will resolve the matter according to departmental policies. The community maintains a supportive stance toward law enforcement. However, residents simultaneously demand professional integrity from those who serve them.

“My community, we’re not anti police, we 100% support police officers, we just want the standard to be there,” Kimbrough said.

Leadership Transition Amid Controversy

North Little Rock Police Chief Patrick Thessing submitted a letter of retirement to Mayor Terry Hartwick on Wednesday. Thessing will step down after serving the community for 31 years. His last day in office will be June 30, 2026.

The chief held his appointment since 2021 and served in numerous capacities including investigations, patrol, and training. Under his leadership, the city implemented the Real-Time Crime Center, which expanded the use of technology in stopping violent offenders. Thessing expressed gratitude for his time with the department and confidence in its future.

“Titles mean nothing, but humility and striving to always serve others while putting yourself last will carry you far. I leave knowing the agency is strong, and more importantly, that it is filled with amazing people who are committed to their calling. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this team for so many years. It has truly been the honor of my life to serve alongside you,” Thessing shared in a statement.

Regional Law Enforcement in Transition

Thessing represents the second police chief in Pulaski County to announce retirement in the previous month. Little Rock Police Chief Heath Helton announced his retirement on May 20 after 30 years with the department. Helton served nearly four years as chief of police.

The simultaneous departures create significant openings for two of Central Arkansas‘s largest law enforcement agencies. These transitions occur during a time of heightened scrutiny. Community concerns about police conduct and accountability continue to intensify across the region.

Both departments now face the challenge of selecting new leadership while addressing ongoing community trust issues. The timing of these retirements adds complexity to an already difficult period for local law enforcement. Residents expect new chiefs to prioritize transparency, accountability, and equitable service to all community members regardless of background.