Little Rock Local News

Little Rock, Arkansas - As we approach the final quarter of the year, the Little Rock Police Department reports a significant decrease in both homicides and instances of violent crime. Recent statistics from the LRPD indicate a 25% decrease in homicides compared to the same timeframe in the previous year, which translates to a reduction of roughly 15 murder cases. Moreover, incidents of violent crime have lessened by 145 cases. Elucidating on the observed decline, Little Rock police pointed out various factors that have influenced this trend. The department underscored the role of increased police visibility in neighborhoods and the utilization of...

Little Rock, Arkansas - An Arkansas man, aged 25, was taken into custody on Friday in connection with a female's death, whose remains were discovered inside an SUV in May. The Johnson County Sheriff's Office confirmed that Kyle Holman from Lamar was arrested and faces manslaughter charges. The incident unfolded on May 13 when Jaqueline Smith's body was discovered in the passenger seat of a 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe. Evidence collected during the inquiry suggests that Ms. Smith was hit by an automobile at a separate county location prior to the authorities being notified of an unconscious woman at the address "10833 Highway...

Little Rock, Arkansas - The national historic site of Little Rock Central High School was the venue for a panel discussion concerning book banning. This event took place on Saturday at the main branch of the Central Arkansas Library System (CALS). Prominent panel members included the CALS director and the executive director of the American Library Association. The principal objective of the discussion was to delve into the history and current scenario of book banning, examining the implications of laws and regulations that limit access to literary works. Tiffeni Fontno, who helms the Peabody Library at Vanderbilt University, raised a notable concern...

Little Rock, Arkansas - The Metropolitan Housing Alliance, serving as Little Rock's primary public housing agency, has recently come under scrutiny following a federal evaluation. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) pointed out specific "performance deficiencies" concerning the agency in a recent letter. An assessment report from Aug. 9 saw HUD designate the Metropolitan Housing Alliance as "troubled". This categorization stemmed from an examination of various aspects, including its financial standing, physical infrastructure, management competence, and capital fund utilization. The evaluation revealed that the housing authority managed to secure only 40 out of a potential 100 points. A...

Little Rock, Arkansas - The persistent challenge of violent crime continues to impact the United States, with ramifications on both societal well-being and economic development. Despite the broader national decline in such offenses, certain cities, including Little Rock, remain profoundly affected. Drawing upon the latest FBI crime data, this report highlights the cities most affected by violent crimes, with a particular emphasis on Little Rock, ranked third by insiderMonkey. Little Rock, as Arkansas' capital, boasts a population of 202,864. In 2022 alone, the city reported 3,694 violent crimes, equating to a rate of 1,820 per 100,000 residents. A marked increase in...

Little Rock, Arkansas - Residents of Little Rock affected by the March 31 tornado are being informed about the "Little Rock Cares" grant. This initiative was introduced the day following the tornado, which affected numerous residents. Mollie Palmer, representing the Heart of Arkansas United Way, has stated that in-person assistance will be available for the coming three weeks. This decision comes with the understanding that not everyone may be familiar with the online application process, which commenced on August 1. Palmer emphasized the simplicity of the application, which seeks to understand the individual impact of the tornado on applicants, the aid...

Little Rock, Arkansas - The Arkansas State Fair, recognized as the largest event in the state, is set to host a job fair on Saturday, August 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. As preparations are underway for the event scheduled this October, there are various roles open for applicants looking to play a part in the fair's operations. Available positions include: Parking Attendant: Responsible for guiding patrons to optimal parking spaces and ensuring vehicle speeds are maintained within safe limits. Gate Operations Assistant: Duties encompass welcoming attendees, executing security screenings, and underscoring event safety. Event Staff: The role demands vigilance...

Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Family Dental (AFD), located at 13600 David O’Dodd Road in Little Rock, has generously announced its initiative to provide dental services without charge to those in financial need. The initiative will take place on September 8, starting from 7 a.m. Given the expected demand, services will be rendered on a first-come, first-serve basis. The offerings will encompass procedures such as cleaning, extraction, and filling, all aimed at enhancing overall oral health. AFD articulated their commitment by stating, “We’re dedicated to making dental care accessible to all, emphasizing the importance of a healthy smile.” For those considering attendance, parking...

Little Rock, Arkansas - In response to the anticipated high temperatures for the week, the City of Little Rock has opened cooling centers at several community locations. Available to the general public until Saturday, Aug. 26, these facilities will operate between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The designated centers include: Dunbar Community Center, 1001 W. 16th St. East Little Rock Community Center, 2500 E. Sixth St. Southwest Community Center, 6401 Baseline Road Stephens Community Center, 3720 W. 18th St. West Central Community Center, 8616 Colonel Glenn Road. These cooling centers cater to residents seeking relief during this heatwave, offering a secure...

Little Rock, Arkansas - In a significant departure from the stance of Arkansas education authorities, the Little Rock School District has declared its intention to award credits for the AP African American Studies course. Previously, state educational leaders had determined that students partaking in this Advanced Placement course would not accrue credits towards their graduation. The district communicated on Wednesday, "As part of our commitment to providing a rich and comprehensive learning experience, we will continue with our plans to offer the AP course. We will also continue to work closely with the College Board regarding content and curriculum." Earlier this year, an...