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AOC tells task force court security is uneven: staffing, facilities and training drive risk
Summary
AOC staff told the Judiciary task force that court security in district courts is determined locally, with variability in security personnel, facility suitability and training; a 2007 Court Security Act provides an 8‑hour curriculum but equipment often lacks personnel to operate it.
A joint Judiciary task force heard on March 1 that court security across district court departments in Arkansas varies widely and is primarily a local responsibility.
Ben Barham, an AOC staff attorney focused on district courts, told legislators that security in district courts is provided by city or county law enforcement (police or sheriff) under existing statutory language and that arrangements differ by community. He said district courts in some areas are held in dedicated courtrooms with secure entry points; in many others they operate out of city halls or meeting rooms without conventional courtroom security…
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