Fort Smith, Ark. – Fort Smith Police Chief Danny Baker issued a public statement addressing growing concerns over hateful online comments and increasingly disruptive behavior during recent City Board meetings, while emphasizing the department’s commitment to protecting both public safety and constitutional rights.
Baker said the Fort Smith Police Department has received concerns from community members about a rise in alarming online comments and conduct that has disrupted some City Board meetings.
The chief acknowledged that residents often hold differing opinions on local issues, describing respectful dialogue as an important part of a healthy community.
“The Constitution protects the right to free speech, even when the views expressed are unpopular or offensive,” Baker said. He added that those constitutional protections also limit when law enforcement can take action based solely on online speech.
According to Baker, the department reviews every report involving concerning online content on a case-by-case basis, evaluating the available information under applicable laws and consulting with prosecutorial officials before determining whether any enforcement action is appropriate.
Baker also addressed behavior during City Board meetings, saying the department remains committed to ensuring public meetings are conducted in a safe and lawful manner that allows everyone an opportunity to participate.
While noting that passionate disagreement is a normal part of public discourse, Baker said threats, intimidation, harassment, and disorderly conduct have no place in the community or at public meetings.
He encouraged residents to continue participating in discussions about issues affecting Fort Smith while asking that those conversations remain respectful, even when opinions differ.
Baker said the Fort Smith Police Department will continue balancing its responsibility to uphold the constitutional rights of every individual with its duty to protect public safety.
The chief concluded by thanking residents who report concerning behavior, engage respectfully with one another, and work alongside the department to help keep Fort Smith a safe and welcoming community.