The University of Arkansas Police Department has recently expanded its ranks, adding six officers to the team of law enforcement professionals. The officers' diverse backgrounds make them valuable assets to the UAPD team and the campus. Regardless of the unique experiences that brought each officer to choose to work at the U of A, they are united by a shared commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the university community.  

"We make every effort to bring the highest quality of officer to our campus community," Lt. Marshall Aaron Mahan said. "We believe our community is committed to help cultivate Arkansas' best and brightest, and because of that we owe our community to provide the very best law enforcement has to offer." 

Officer Joshua Wherry 

Hometown: Fort Smith, Arkansas 

Before joining law enforcement, Officer Wherry worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Northwest Medical Center. He gained valuable experience working in various units of the hospital, including cardiac step down, behavioral health, med-surg, and the emergency department. Initially pursuing a career in nursing, he later discovered that law enforcement was his true calling, allowing him to fulfill his desire to help others. 

As a patrol officer at UAPD, Officer Wherry plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of students and faculty at the University of Arkansas. He was drawn to UAPD due to its strong emphasis on community policing and building connections with the community it serves. 

Officer Jonathan Maclin 

Hometown: Centerton, Arkansas 

Officer Maclin started his journey with UAPD as a telecommunications specialist (i.e., 911 dispatcher), providing him with valuable insights into the inner workings of the department. Growing up in Centerton, Arkansas, he had a strong desire to serve his community as a police officer from a young age. 

In his role as a police officer, Officer Maclin prioritizes public safety in everything he does, from conducting security checks to making traffic stops on campus. He credits UAPD with providing him the opportunity to learn and grow into the officer he aspired to be since childhood. 

Officer Dalton Solley 

Hometown: Blueball, Arkansas 

Officer Solley's journey to UAPD took him through various experiences, including 11 years of service in the Army Reserves and active duty, where he deployed to Germany and Africa. Afterward, he worked as a correctional officer and a probation officer before joining UAPD in August 2022. 

As a patrol officer at UAPD, Officer Solley focuses on ensuring student and faculty safety, positive police interactions, and promoting positive community relations. He appreciates the diverse nature of his job, which allows him to interact with various members of the community, including children, and bridge the gap between law enforcement officers and the citizens they serve. 

Officer Benjamin Lowe 

Hometown: Prairie Grove, Arkansas 

Officer Lowe previously served at the Prairie Grove Police Department, where he developed strong observational and goal-oriented skills. Born in Utah but raised in Prairie Grove, he joined the United States Air Force right out of high school to become a firefighter, driven by a passion for public safety. 

As a patrol officer, Officer Lowe looks forward to joining special assignments such as K9 and motorcycle patrol. He is excited to work for UAPD because of his love for helping others and interacting with the community, especially students who are experiencing college life away from home for the first time. 

Officer Kendall Davis 

Hometown: Edwardsville, Illinois 

Before joining UAPD, Officer Davis worked as a Juvenile Probation Officer with auxiliary officer certification at the Washington County Juvenile Court Division 3. Originally from Edwardsville, Illinois, Officer Davis is currently a full-time student at the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in Springdale, Arkansas, while also occasionally assisting with football games and special events on campus. He is eager to learn more about the university and build relationships within the community. 

Officer Jessi Rivera 

Hometown: Green Forest, Arkansas 

Officer Rivera brings 15 years of experience from Tyson Foods, where he held various positions and gained a deep appreciation for learning about different cultures and traditions. He embarked on his journey to become a patrol officer after completing police academy training. 

Officer Rivera's goal is to connect with people in a manner that makes them comfortable and at ease. He aims to be a resource and a friendly face for those he serves, emphasizing the importance of community engagement. 

"These officers bring different experiences, a commitment to public safety, and a passion for building strong community relationships," UAPD Chief Stephen Gahagans said. "We know that each officer will strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students, faculty, and staff at the University of Arkansas."   

The U of A continues to bring on employees who are dedicated to supporting the well-being of students and faculty. Officers Joshua Wherry, Jonathan Maclin, Dalton Solley, Benjamin Lowe, Kendall Davis, and Jessi Rivera are the most recent example of that commitment. 

About the University of Arkansas Police Department: The UAPD, in partnership with the community we serve, is committed to protecting and serving the future of Arkansas and beyond by embracing the philosophy of community policing and by promoting a safe and secure environment through excellence, initiative, and integrity.

Do you want to make a difference in the campus community? Consider applying to work with the University of Arkansas Police Department! The University of Arkansas offers competive pay and benefits and is an equal opportunity institution committed to a sense of belonging. Therefore, the university welcomes applications without regard to race/color, sex, gender, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability, religion, marital or parental status, protected veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal or state law. Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment. All applicant information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.