The Pine Bluff Police Department marked a historic milestone Thursday with the swearing-in of two new assistant chiefs, bringing the total number of assistant chiefs in the department to three for the first time.
Billy “Skip” Elliott and Shirley Warrior were sworn in by Sixth Division Circuit Court Judge Earnest Brown during a ceremony held Thursday morning. Kelven Hadley had already been serving in the role of assistant chief.
The appointments follow a recent decision by the Pine Bluff City Council to restructure the department’s command staff, replacing the previous model of one assistant chief and two deputy chiefs with three assistant chiefs. Officials said the change was made to create a more balanced leadership structure under the chief’s office.
Police Chief Shawn Davis called the occasion “historic,” noting the importance of the moment for the department.
Prior to their promotions, Elliott and Warrior both served as deputy chiefs. Warrior also served as acting chief of police for much of 2025 before Davis was sworn in as chief in January 2026.
Davis praised both leaders during the ceremony, emphasizing the critical role his command staff plays in the department’s success.
Mayor Vivian Flowers also recognized Elliott and Warrior, thanking them for their service and leadership within the community.
Elliott, who began his career with the department in May 1985, is currently the longest-serving member of the Pine Bluff Police Department. Warrior joined the department on July 26, 1990.
