Public Information

 

 

 

 

Message from the Public Information Officer

The Springdale Police Department Public Relations Officer works with the media to ensure community awareness of major department activity.  Arrests records and information concerning serious criminal activity are publicized in an effort to inform community members of issues that affect the safety and quality of life for Springdale residents. 

In addition to channeling information regularly to area media, our Public Relations Officer works with representatives from area schools, businesses and organizations to provide educational programs and activities that allow for a more intimate interaction with citizens and sworn police personnel. 

Ever aware of the needs of our residents and local non profits, we routinely coordinate or participate in fundraisers that address material needs for our community.  We regularly host such events and always welcome the participation of residents in our efforts to address these needs.

From forming Neighborhood Watch Programs to fingerprinting area children, our department remains proactive in its efforts to ensure the safety of this community. 

 Keeping residents informed is a necessary step in our efforts to sustain the confidence this community has traditionally shown in our officers. We will remain steadfast in our effort to develop and maintain the level of communication necessary to ensure the safety of our residents. 


 
 

 

 

 

 

 

        

Winter Driving Tips

The Springdale Police Department would like to remind all drivers to exercise caution while driving in snow and ice. The best advice for driving in bad winter weather is to not drive at all unless absolutely necessary. Drivers should not go out until snow plows and sanding trucks have had a chance to do their work and should allow additional time to reach their destination. Here are some additional tips for winter driving: 

  • Listen to public announcements for updated information on current road conditions.

  • Turn on headlights for increased visibility to other drivers.

  • Decrease speed. Posted speed limits are for optimum conditions. According to Arkansas law, no person shall drive at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions.

  • Use gentle impulses while driving such as gentle acceleration, slow turning, careful and early braking, and avoiding any quick movements that could result in spin.

  • Don't use cruise control on icy roads.

  • Don't be overconfident in a four-wheel drive vehicle. Although it may help to get going, it does not assist the vehicle's braking ability.

  • Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses, and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first.

  • Maintain a safe distance between vehicles. It is recommended to allow at least three (3) times more space than usual.

 For additional information, please contact the Springdale Police Department.

Submitted by Sergeant Shane Pegram

 

 

Homicide Suspect Arrested

 

On January 16, 2008, at approx. 0445, Springdale Police and Washington County Deputies located and arrested Jonathan Lee (22) in connection with the homicide at the La Quinta Inn in Springdale. Mr. Lee was located at a residence on Appleblossom Road in Tontitown. He was arrested without incident and was taken to Springdale Police Department  where he was interviewed. Mr. Lee is charged with Capital Murder and Attempted Capital Murder. The case is still under investigation.

Submitted by Sergeant Shane Pegram

 

Changes in Animal Control Procedures

Beginning January 1, 2008 Springdale Animal Control Officers will no longer fall under the Springdale Police Department. They will begin the new year as part of Animal Services, a division of the Springdale Public Works Department.

All animal related calls will still be taken by Springdale Police Dispatch, who will then notify Animal Services during normal business hours. Animal Control officers can still be called out after hours for vicious or injured animals, or any situation that presents a risk to public safety. Springdale Police Officers will also respond to assist in these cases; however, officers will no longer be able to respond to non-threatening or contained animals. Police officers lack the training, equipment, or the ability to transport animals in the patrol cars due to the health hazards created for human passengers that are also transported in the same car.

Animal Control Officers will continue to pick up deceased animals on public property and highways and will assist in some cases on private property. Animal services and the Springdale Police Department expect the current service level to be maintained in light of these changes. For additional information, please contact Animal Services at 750-8163 or 750-8166.

 Submitted by Sergeant Shane Pegram

 

Juveniles Arrested in Thefts 

Springdale Detectives arrested and charged three 15 year old males with breaking into approximately 50 vehicles as well as being responsible for the theft of three different motor vehicles. The crime spree began in September and the three are responsible for vehicle break-ins in the following areas of Springdale: 

Ø     Westfield Subdivision

Ø     The Vineyards

Ø     Monticello Subdivision

Ø     Steeplechase

Ø     Lancaster

Ø     Buckingham Subdivision

Ø     Eagle Crest/Osprey area

Ø     Football games at Bulldog Stadium

Ø     Any residence in the area between Backus and Falcon and between Silent Grove Rd. and the Vineyards (west of 40th street)

  

            The majority of vehicles that were victimized were unlocked but some had windows broken out to gain entry. Items that were taken and recovered were CD car stereos (Alpines, JVC, and Pioneer brands), IPODS, garage door openers, clothing, books, bank cards, and driver's licenses or identification cards plus many other personal items. The total value of the recovered property is estimated to be anywhere from $6,000 to $10,000. During this investigation it was discovered that some of the crimes had not been reported. If anyone that lives in the general areas named above had items taken from their vehicle and did not report the incident, please contact the Springdale Police Department Criminal Investigation Division to determine if their property was recovered.

             The three suspects were charged Breaking and Entering, Theft of Property (felony), Motor Vehicle Theft X3 and Criminal Mischief 1st degree. They will be facing charges in Benton and Washington Counties.

 Capt. Laney Morriss

CID Commander

 

 

Complaints Regarding Young Fighters at MMA Cage Match

The Springdale Police Department received several complaints about a YouTube video showing two eight year old boys fighting during a mixed martial arts (MMA) cage match. The event was held in Springdale on November 30, 2007. Upon receiving initial complaints about the event, the Criminal Investigations Division began looking into the case. During the investigation, it was learned that the Arkansas State Athletic Commission had been present at the event and has already taken action against the Pure Breed Fighting League in Rogers to insure that this type of activity does not occur again. The Springdale Police Department has been assured that only fighters eighteen (18) and above will be allowed to participate. The Springdale Police Department will continue to monitor any future MMA events held in Springdale. We appreciate all persons that made the Springdale Police Department aware of the situation, so that it could be addressed. If you have any further questions, please contact the Springdale Police Department at 756-8200.

Submitted by Sergeant Shane Pegram

 

Springdale Man Arrested for Rape

 On February 20, 2008 Springdale Police arrested Luciano Melchor-Perez (65) for rape. The arrest was the result of an investigation by the Springdale Criminal Investigation Division. During the investigation, it was determined that Mr. Melchor had sexual contact several times with a nine (9) year old female that he was residing with. Mr. Melchor had been living with his son, the victim, and the mother of the victim at a residence in Springdale since late 2007. The investigation began when the victim informed her mother of the sexual activity. During the investigation, Mr. Melchor was interviewed at which time he admitted that sexual contact had taken place between the two. He was arrested for rape and transported to the Washington County Jail where he is currently being held.

Submitted by Sergeant Shane Pegram

 

 

2007 Graffiti Statistics

The Springdale Police Department observed an increase in the number of reported graffiti incidents in 2007 compared to 2006. In 2007, there were 454 incidents or reports of graffiti compared to 220 in 2006. The City incurred a cost of $15,742 to remove, cover up, or replace graffiti damage to City property during 2007. Costs incurred for clean up on private property was only $22.00 for gas used in a power washer. This was made possible by using non-violent prisoners and community service workers to clean and remove graffiti all over the City along with assistance from community organizations and area businesses. The Springdale Nuisance Abatement Partnership (S.N.A.P) Team partnered with the Northwest Arkansas Hispanic Council, who provided 50 volunteers to help with the clean up. Supplies and equipment were also donated from Spectrum Paint Store, National Home Center, Lowe's, and Meek's Lumber.

Springdale Patrol Officers contributed to the 25 graffiti related arrests in 2007 by using unmarked police cars and increasing foot patrols in areas where graffiti has been a problem. Graffiti is a problem that affects the appearance of the city, business growth, tax revenue, and leads to additional crime. The Springdale Police Department and S.N.A.P are committed to aggressively pursuing graffiti related offenses in 2008. Anyone interested in the graffiti removal program, can contact Sgt Billy Turnbough at 750-8139.

Submitted by Sergeant Shane Pegram

Public Information Officer