A night to honor the law enforcement officials and officers of Independence County is planned for Tuesday, Sept. 29, at Batesville’s Riverside Park Pavilion.
The group, “Back the Blue of Independence County,” will hold the event from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and it will feature Batesville native and Arkansas Attorney General Leslie Rutledge as the keynote speaker.
Other guest speakers will include Jami Cook, the director of the Arkansas Division on Law Enforcement Standards and Training; Kelly Barber, the deputy prosecuting attorney for the 16th Judicial District; Independence County Sheriff Shawn Stephens; Batesville Police Chief Alan Cockrill; State Sen. James Sturch; and State Rep. Stu Smith.
Organizers say guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control will be followed. Face masks and water will be available while supplies last. And attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
Donations will be accepted the night of the event to go toward officer training. Donations can also be accepted by visiting the Facebook page for Back the Blue of Independence County and clicking the “GoFundMe” link.
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