HOXIE, Ark. — The Hoxie Police Department announced a $9,894.94 donation from Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin’s office that will fund the purchase of new body‑worn cameras and handheld radios. The contribution, detailed in a department news release dated Oct. 16, is intended to replace equipment the department described as outdated.
Equipment upgrades planned
The department plans to acquire four new body‑worn cameras through the vendor 10‑8 Video, along with six new handheld radios. These items will directly replace older cameras and radios that have been in service for several years, improving both transparency and officer communication.
Attorney General Griffin’s support
Detective Sgt. Joshua Rakoczy forwarded the release to NEA Report on Oct. 17, noting the department’s gratitude toward Attorney General Griffin and his staff for the contribution. While the release does not specify a grant program, matching requirements, or spending deadlines, it clearly identifies the money as a donation rather than a formal grant.
Impact on public safety
Modern body‑worn cameras are widely recognized as tools that increase accountability and provide clearer records of police‑public interactions. Updated handheld radios enhance real‑time communication among officers, which can be critical during emergencies and routine patrols. By upgrading these essential pieces of equipment, Hoxie’s police force aims to better serve the community while adhering to best practices in law‑enforcement technology.
No timeline disclosed
The release does not include a timetable for when the new cameras and radios will be placed into service. Likewise, it does not detail any additional conditions attached to the donation, such as reporting requirements or future funding obligations.
Community response
Local residents and officials have expressed appreciation for the assistance, emphasizing the importance of keeping the police department equipped with reliable tools. The donation reflects a collaborative effort between state officials and local law‑enforcement to ensure public safety resources remain current.
As Hoxie continues to prioritize community safety, the department’s leadership plans to monitor the integration of the new equipment and assess its impact on daily operations.
Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.
