Pine Bluff, Arkansas – In a significant breakthrough in the fight against a recent rise in property crimes, the Pine Bluff Police Department’s Burglary Task Force has made several key arrests related to a string of commercial burglaries affecting local businesses. The task force, which was created to address an uptick in break-ins, has worked tirelessly using community collaboration and data from business owners to bring those responsible to justice.
Arrests and Charges
The task force, led by Captain Sam Atkinson, Captain Marcus Smith, Lieutenant DeShawn Bennett, Lieutenant Brett Talley, Sergeant Desiree Shy, and Officer Jimmiesha Palmer, arrested 32-year-old Alyssia Alexander. Alexander is believed to be responsible for burglarizing two local businesses: Shipley’s Donuts, located at 1300 S. Main Street, and Atomic Wings at 2506 W. 28th Avenue. In addition to the burglary charges, Alexander also had two outstanding felony warrants for robbery, which were added to her charges.
On October 13, 2024, officers arrested a 15-year-old juvenile connected to the burglary of Wendy’s at 2909 W. 28th Avenue. Just minutes later, another 15-year-old juvenile was arrested for burglarizing Shipley’s Donuts. The juveniles’ arrests mark a critical point in the task force’s ongoing efforts to address the recent spike in commercial break-ins throughout Pine Bluff.
Task Force’s Efforts to Curb Commercial Crimes
The Burglary Task Force, formed in response to a noticeable rise in property crimes targeting businesses, has been diligently investigating these crimes over the past week. The team has been actively working with local business owners, gathering data, and encouraging community collaboration to identify and apprehend the individuals responsible for these crimes. Their coordinated efforts have not only led to these arrests but also represent a broader initiative to restore safety and security to the business community of Pine Bluff.
Lieutenant DeShawn Bennett, who also serves as the department’s Public Information Officer, emphasized the importance of community cooperation in tackling these crimes. “We are committed to ensuring the safety of our local businesses and holding those accountable for these crimes. The success of the task force reflects the hard work and dedication of our officers and the critical partnership we have with the community.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Burglary Task Force has stated that the investigation remains ongoing, with efforts continuing to identify and apprehend any other individuals connected to these crimes. The recent arrests mark a crucial step forward, but authorities are encouraging anyone with information to come forward. The Pine Bluff Police Department is calling on residents and business owners to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity in their neighborhoods.
Anyone with additional information related to the ongoing investigation is encouraged to contact the detective office tip line at 870-730-2106. Additionally, the public can reach the detective office at 870-730-2090 or the dispatch center at 870-541-5300.
The Pine Bluff Police Department’s proactive response to these crimes demonstrates a focused effort to reduce commercial break-ins and restore confidence among the city’s business owners. As the investigation continues, local law enforcement remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of Pine Bluff’s business community.
