New Laws Arkansans Need To Know

Texarkana, Arkansas Police are warning residents of new laws. In fact, there are several new laws on the books since the state's legislative session adjourned. When it comes to using deadly force in defense, a person no longer has to retreat. Previously, an attacker had to enter the victim's home before that victim could turn around and use force on the attacker. And police says that's not all you need to know. "Used to, unless you were in your house, the law said you had to retreat," says Officer Chris Rankin, Texarkana, Arkansas Police Public Information Officer. Home invasions, burglaries, protecting yourself. Arkansans can now handle these situations in a less precocious manner. If force is the only option, no need to retreat. If a suspect is on your property and deadly force is needed, then by law, use it.

"This is in no way a green light for citizens to go out and start a confrontation," explains Officer Rankin. Officer Rankin says cases will be investigated on an individual basis. He warns that deadly force should always be the last option. In court, that is what a judge and jury will consider. Also new to Arkansas' lawbooks,vicious dog legislation. An unlawful dog attack is now a misdemeanor. "The offense requires that the dog owner knows that the dog will attack and lets it happen." This is also investigated on an individual basis, but allows officers to prosecute dog owners with animals that are known to be vicious or have a history with animal control.
 
Moving on now to the state's "meth makeover." "Meth over the last five years has been huge, especially in this state." The current law was put in place meth popular. Lawmakers, tired of not being able to prosecute drug pushers and users, have redefined drug paraphernalia to include all items used to ingest or inhale any controlled substance. An example? Drinking straws. "Sometimes these incidents have been thrown out in court because the law didn't specifically identify that item as drug paraphernalia." 

Domestic abuse also got some attention. Now officers have more time and reason to arrest the aggressor. New guidelines will aid officers in deciding who started the confrontation and who to arrest. "Shall arrest. Meaning there is no option. They go to jail." These laws are only a few of many, so it might be in your best interest to check out any specific detail or questions you might have with your local law enforcement.

Click to visit the Arkansas Criminal Justice website for the latest information on these regulations.