On the recordJune 27, 2016
Mr. President, I would like to recognize Corporal Jason Chester and Sergeant Trey Dupuy of the Jonesboro Police Department as this week's Arkansans of the Week for heroically saving the life of a 13 year-old boy trapped in a storm drain. Last month, 13-year-old Jacob Hunter was swept away during a flash flood in Jonesboro. Jacob was washed through the city's drainage system underneath a parking lot, where he held on for hours. Initial search efforts by police, fire, EMS, and other volunteers to find Jacob were unsuccessful, but Corporal Chester and Sergeant Dupuy wouldn't give up hope. They returned to the area where Jacob was first swept away and searched it again. Sergeant Dupuy leaned toward a storm drain and heard a faint cry for help. That is when the two officers jumped into action. They removed a heavy manhole cover and were able to pull Jacob to safety. The entire State of Arkansas is grateful to Corporal Chester and Sergeant Dupuy and to all the first responders for their heroic efforts. We don't hear news stories with happy endings enough these days, especially when the circumstances seem so grim, but because of the persistence and quick thinking of these two officers, Jacob Hunter is alive and well today. I am honored to recognize Corporal Jason Chester and Sergeant Trey Dupuy for their efforts. Their determination and commitment to finding Jacob is a reflection of the true spirit of Arkansas.…





