Jonesboro, AR – (JonesboroRightNow.com) – July 24, 2024 – The Jonesboro Police Department made a post on their Facebook page on Tuesday announcing the presentation of a composite of the African American officers currently serving at JPD.

The photo was presented to the E. Boone Watson Community Center which contains a museum known as the African American Cultural Center. The collection “serves as a custodian of the rich history of Craighead County’s African American community.”

The post goes on to say that the center “pays homage to those who are currently leading the way in politics, education, medicine, and other fields, showcasing their struggles and successes in achieving their goals.”

According to Jonesboro.org, “The purpose of A.A.C.C. is to share the spirit and history of Craighead County’s African American community, including their struggles and successes, as well as their dreams for their children and grandchildren as they attempted to cope with an ever-changing society and the stresses that society imposed.”

Chief Elliott stated, “This composite represents the changes and growth we have seen over the years, giving the department better community representation.”

Several officers and admin attended the presentation. The photo will be hung in the museum for citizens to admire alongside the museum’s collection of other historically significant artifacts.

The E. Boone Watson Center African American Cultural Center is free, and visits are by appointment only by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 870-933-4604.