Time for discussion

Some weeks ago this paper published a guest column written by John Flake, a prominent Little Rock resident, business leader, entrepreneur, and concerned citizen. I do not have access to that piece now, and the following comments are dependent upon my memory.

Mr. Flake was, as I recall, proposing an examination of a possible remedy to the horrific violent crime problem we have in Little Rock. The remedy of which he wrote is for the city of Little Rock to enter into an arrangement with Pulaski County for the county sheriff to assume law enforcement responsibilities for the city.

Note that this is not a novel idea. Such arrangements have been entered into in several metropolitan areas in the country and most have been successful. While benefits to citizens have included lower expenditures in law enforcement, my understanding is that the best news is there have been significant reductions in crime in most communities with these city/ county arrangements.

I voted for Mayor Frank Scott. But the current approach by his administration to solving the crime problem — programs such as “Courageous Conversations” — have so far seemed to be quite ineffective. Alternatives should be considered sooner rather than later, with an emphasis on community involvement in the examination and discussion process. Community involvement is, in my opinion, the key to the success of any effort to reduce crime here in our city.

I am unaware of any steps taken to date in Little Rock to at least consider Mr. Flake’s suggestion. I respectfully suggest it is time for such a discussion to begin.

SAM HIGHSMITH

Little Rock