UAPD's David Robertson Promoted to Lieutenant

The University of Arkansas Police Department is pleased to announce the promotion of David Robertson to the rank of lieutenant.

"Since beginning his career in 2011, Lt. Robertson has demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership and professionalism throughout every stage of his service," said Chief Stephen Gahagans, director of university police. "Congratulations to David on this well-deserved promotion. His integrity and unwavering commitment to public service will continue to strengthen our department and the community we proudly serve."

Robertson served for four years on patrol, building a strong foundation in community policing and officer mentorship. He earned the rank of patrol corporal in 2013 and became a field training officer, playing a key role in developing new officers and shaping the next generation of patrol personnel. Additionally, he became a certified narcotics officer, enhancing the department's capabilities in drug enforcement and criminal interdiction. He later spent five years in the Criminal Investigations Division, where he strengthened his investigative expertise and contributed to numerous successful convictions.

In 2020, Robertson returned to patrol as a sergeant. He served as the day shift patrol sergeant and later continued his supervisory work within investigations before being selected in 2023 as the Criminal Investigations Division sergeant.

Throughout his career, Robertson has been recognized with numerous awards, including Officer of the Year (2012, 2015), DWI Award (2013-2015), Employee of the Year (2017), the Chief's Award (2018) and the Marksmanship Award (2020). He has also earned multiple physical fitness awards (2020, 2022 and 2023), reflecting his commitment to health, preparedness and setting a strong example for his peers. 

"David is one of our 'go-to' employees due to his versatility and ability to adapt to help us in all areas of our department," Gahagans said. "His dedication to training and developing officers has elevated overall departmental readiness and professionalism."

Robertson holds instructor certifications in firearms, defensive tactics and multiple active shooter disciplines. He remains committed to professional growth, graduating from the Criminal Justice School of Law Enforcement Supervision in 2024, and he is scheduled to attend Northwestern University's School of Police Staff and Command in February. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice and sociology from the U of A in 2010.