Presented by State Representative Bill Hardwick, Sheriff Stacy Ball, and Pulaski County Prosecutor Jeff Thomas on Tuesday, March 4, 2025

The recent community safety briefing in Pulaski County provided an opportunity for open dialogue on key issues impacting local residents. This was not a political event, nor was it about partisan divides—it was a conversation about safety, justice, and community concerns. The presence of elected officials across different branches—those who create laws, enforce them, and prosecute violations—ensured a well-rounded discussion.

As the Community Connections Chair for Pulaski County NAACP, I attended to engage, learn, and bring these issues to a broader audience. Below are some key takeaways from the discussion.

Key Issues Discussed

1. Supporting Survivors of Domestic Violence

Pulaski County Prosecutor Jeff Thomas opened his portion of the discussion by stressing the importance of community support for survivors of domestic abuse. His emphasis on survivor well-being and advocacy highlighted a need for resources, engagement, and protective measures beyond the legal system.

2. The Role of CASA and Kids’ Harbor in Child Advocacy

The conversation also underscored the importance of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), who work to represent and protect the interests of children in the legal system. Their role in advocating for vulnerable youth is critical.

Additionally, Kids’ Harbor was mentioned as an essential organization assisting families and identifying children who may be at risk. Their work ensures that at-risk youth receive the protection and care they need.

3. Truth in Sentencing and Public Safety Concerns

A domestic violence survivor voiced concerns about the lack of truth in sentencing—where individuals sentenced to significant prison terms often serve much less time due to space shortages.

Sheriff Stacy Ball clarified that when someone is brought to jail, it often means that one new person in results in two non-violent offenders being released due to overcrowding. This reality fuels frustration in the community, particularly when it comes to repeat offenders.

State Representative Bill Hardwick acknowledged the complexity of incarceration policies, distinguishing between hardened criminals and those who may be rehabilitated or stuck in bad circumstances. He highlighted the need for a more strategic approach to sentencing and prison capacity.

4. Reintegration Challenges for Released Individuals

A downtown business owner raised concerns about individuals released from the county jail—especially out-of-towners—who often have no money, transportation, or even proper clothing upon release.

• A particular case involved a woman from St. Louis arrested for an unpaid traffic violation (a seatbelt infraction from 2019). She was transferred to Pulaski County, paid her fine, and was released—but had no money, phone, or way to get home.
• Another individual, recently released, entered a business frustrated, saying, “How am I supposed to get back to California?”
• There are also cases where people are arrested in warm weather wearing shorts, but by the time they are released, it’s freezing outside, and they lack proper clothing.

Sheriff Ball mentioned the idea of hiring a reintegration officer for the county jail, which could help address these gaps. However, there is no such program currently in place, leaving room for community-driven solutions.

5. Misallocated Marijuana Tax Revenue for Veterans

A major issue raised was the unused tax revenue from marijuana sales, which was supposed to fund local programs, including veterans’ services. Despite Pulaski County generating substantial tax revenue from marijuana sales, the funds remain tied up in litigation.

Bill Hardwick noted that there is currently a $10 million shortfall for veterans’ homes, despite voter-approved funding from marijuana tax revenue. This is an issue that requires further state-level accountability and advocacy.

6. Child Welfare and Guardianship System Reform

Concerns were raised about child removals and guardianship laws, including:

• Parents trying to do the right thing but losing custody of their children due to bureaucratic hurdles.
• Children in dangerous environments who remain in unfit homes due to flaws in the system.
• Foster care placements that do not always offer a safer alternative.

Attorney Jeff Thomas suggested that cases should follow different legal pathways based on their circumstances—such as distinguishing between neglect due to poverty vs. severe abuse. Tailored approaches could improve outcomes for children and families alike.

7. Elder Abuse and Forced Guardianship

A community member highlighted the importance of protecting elders from abuse, particularly in cases of forced guardianship, where individuals lose control over their assets and decisions. The community must remain vigilant and advocate for protections against elder exploitation.

8. The Fentanyl Crisis and the Need for Narcan

Two mothers, representing Missouri and Kansas City Families Affected by Fentanyl Poisoning, shared heartbreaking stories of losing their children to fentanyl-laced substances.

• They emphasized that there is no such thing as an “accidental overdose” in these cases—fentanyl exposure is often murder due to tainted substances.
• They strongly advocated for Narcan (Naloxone)—a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses—saying that everyone should carry it because fentanyl exposure can happen to anyone.

Their message was clear: fentanyl does not discriminate, and the community must be proactive in addressing its dangers.

Final Thoughts: A Collaborative Approach to Safety

One of the most important takeaways from this discussion was the collaboration between lawmakers, law enforcement, and the legal system. While individuals in these positions may not have been elected by everyone in the room, they are in office now, and community engagement is essential.

It was also notable that, despite being one of the only Black attendees, the conversation remained focused on community needs rather than political or racial divides. This highlights the importance of showing up, being present, and having a voice in spaces where decisions are made.

Moving forward, Pulaski County NAACP and community leaders can work to:
✔ Advocate for survivor support initiatives.
✔ Push for prison reform that balances justice with public safety.
✔ Explore local reintegration resources for recently released individuals.
✔ Hold the state accountable for misallocated veteran funding.
✔ Support reforms to child welfare and elder protection laws.
✔ Promote awareness and access to Narcan for fentanyl-related emergencies.

By remaining engaged and informed, we ensure that community safety is not just discussed but actively improved.

Call to Action: Be More Than a Keyboard Warrior – Get Involved

Real change happens when we show up, speak up, and take action. The discussions at this community safety briefing highlight that our voices matter—but change doesn’t come from behind a screen. It comes from active participation, real engagement, and collective action.

Ways to Move from Awareness to Action:

✔ Join the NAACP Pulaski County Branch

• Be part of a movement committed to justice, equity, and empowerment.
• Membership gives you a seat at the table to help shape policies and drive change.
• Join today: NAACP Branch 4008-B Membership

✔ Attend Local Meetings & Forums

• Show up to city council meetings, school board discussions, and community safety briefings.
• Decisions that impact our community happen in these rooms—your presence matters.

✔ Advocate for Local Solutions

• Support initiatives that address community needs, such as:
  • Domestic violence survivor support.
  • Reintegration programs for returning citizens.
  • Fair sentencing and criminal justice reforms.
• Raise your voice where it counts—not just online.

✔ Volunteer & Support Grassroots Efforts

• Get involved beyond meetings:
  • Mentor youth.
  • Assist families navigating legal systems.
  • Support reintegration efforts for nonviolent offenders.
• Time and effort change lives more than social media posts.

Step Up. Speak Out. Take Action.

Join the Pulaski County NAACP today and be an active force for change. Membership is just the first step—your actions define your commitment.

Join Branch 4008-B Now