Polk County, AR – A prosecutor has determined that a Grannis Police Department officer was justified in using lethal force during a July 19 incident that resulted in the death of a Wickes resident.
According to the Arkansas State Police, Eighteenth West Judicial District Prosecutor Debra Buschman concluded her review this week, finding no criminal wrongdoing by the officer involved in the fatal shooting of Darrin Laudermilk, 65, of Wickes.
The decision follows an investigation into the confrontation that occurred on July 19, when officers responded to a call that led to an armed encounter involving Laudermilk. Details of the altercation were reviewed by the state police’s Criminal Investigation Division before being submitted to the prosecutor’s office for final determination.
Buschman stated that the officer’s use of lethal force met the legal standard for justification under Arkansas law. The findings effectively close the criminal review related to the incident.
No additional charges are expected to be filed, and the Grannis Police Department has not released further comment at this time.
Residents seeking more information can view the full report on the Arkansas Department of Public Safety website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!
