Local News
First African American officer promoted to captain

Little Rock, Arkansas – In a first for the police department, the North Little Rock Police Department promoted an African American officer to the rank of Captain.
The North Little Rock Justice Center served as the location for Officer Ron Messer’s promotion ceremony.
Captain is the highest attainable level behind Chief and Assistant Chief of Police, and Messer holds the distinction of being the first African American officer to be elevated to that rank within the NLRPD.
“Well I’m feeling great to know that I’m a part of something bigger than myself. It’s a great opportunity for me and for people like me to be able to see that they can do whatever they set their minds to,” he said.
“I’ve worked with him for a very long time, and I’m very proud of him and I’m very confident in his abilities,” said NLRPD Police Chief Patrick Thessing. “And to have him onboard as command staff, it’s pretty awesome. I’m excited.”
In 1997, Messer started working for the NLRPD. He has spent his 25 years of service in the patrol, narcotics, and school resource officer divisions.
The celebratory promotion ceremony was attended by a large portion of Captain Messer’s family, who expressed their pride in him.
“Being the first African American to be promoted to captain is just the cherry on top,” Annette Ireland, Messer’s sister, said. “He’s a hard worker and he’s so deserving. He’s committed and passionate about his work, his commitment to the citizens of North Little Rock. And we’re extremely proud.”
Only one more remarkable accomplishment has to be decided: will Messer run for police chief?
“I was seeing retirement in a few years, but I may have to reevaluate that. I think I may stick around for a while,” Messer said.
Jhailen Rathey, another African American officer, received his promotion to Sergeant during the ceremony.
-
Local News1 week ago
Arkansas law enforcement responds to recent school threats
-
Crime & Safety2 weeks ago
Police in Little Rock are looking into a Saturday morning shooting that claimed one young man’s life
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Rival Arkansas high school football teams come together on the field to support a leukemia patient
-
Local News1 week ago
The Arkansas Board of Education relinquishes local authority to Pine Bluff School District
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Board of Trustees unanimously decided to terminate Arkansas Tech University’s president
-
Arkansas2 weeks ago
The fourth annual doggie pool party is held at Sherwood Animal Shelter
-
Local News1 week ago
NEA Baptist provides AEDs for schools
-
Local News1 week ago
On Labor Day, the mayor of White Hall detained for DUI
Leave a Reply