Hot Springs Police Chief to Retire After 28 Years

Billy Hrvatin will step down in May after leading the department since 2023.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Hot Springs Police Chief Billy Hrvatin, 52, has announced his retirement effective May 15, 2026 after nearly 29 years with the department. Hrvatin was promoted to chief in March 2023 after serving in an interim role for two months, and oversaw a decline in crime rates during his tenure. City Manager Bill Burrough praised Hrvatin's leadership and integrity, saying his promotion was one of the best hiring decisions he's made.

Why it matters

Hrvatin's retirement marks the end of an era for the Hot Springs Police Department, as he has served in nearly every role within the department over his almost three decades of service. His departure comes as the department has struggled with staffing challenges, with several officers leaving for higher-paying jobs with the Arkansas State Police. Hrvatin's leadership has been credited with reducing crime rates in the city.

The details

Hrvatin joined the Hot Springs Police Department in September 1997 and was promoted to chief in March 2023 after leading the department in an interim role for two months. During his time as chief and assistant chief, which he was promoted to in August 2020, the department saw a number of officers leave for other law enforcement jobs, particularly the Arkansas State Police, which offered higher salaries and better benefits. To address staffing challenges, the Hot Springs Board of Directors approved a 12.5% raise for uniformed personnel two months into Hrvatin's tenure as chief, establishing a $52,956 starting salary, up from $44,492 in 2023.

  • Hrvatin joined the Hot Springs Police Department in September 1997.
  • Hrvatin was promoted to assistant chief in August 2020.
  • Hrvatin was promoted to interim police chief in January 2023.
  • Hrvatin was promoted to police chief in March 2023.
  • Hrvatin's retirement will take effect on May 15, 2026.

The players

Billy Hrvatin

The 52-year-old Hot Springs Police Chief who is retiring after nearly 29 years with the department, including serving as chief since March 2023.

Bill Burrough

The Hot Springs City Manager who selected Hrvatin as police chief, calling it one of the best hiring decisions he's made.

Chris Chapmond

The previous Hot Springs Police Chief who resigned in January 2023 to head the state Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Training.

Bill Hrvatin

The father of Billy Hrvatin who retired as a captain after 27 years with the Hot Springs Police Department.

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What they’re saying

“My decision to promote Billy Hrvatin to the position of chief will stand as one of the best hiring decisions I have ever made. Over his almost 29 years of service to our city, there isn't a position within the police department that he hasn't served in. He is a cop's cop and a man of utmost integrity. He walks the talk, and I believe our officers know that.”

— Bill Burrough, Hot Springs City Manager

“Since he became chief, we have seen a huge decrease in crime throughout the city. This can be directly related to programs he initiated and the standards he requires. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him, and we have had a great working relationship. Though it is a great loss to our community, I wish him all the best in his retirement. It is truly well deserved.”

— Bill Burrough, Hot Springs City Manager

“I'm not leaving for another job. I'm just going to be retired for a while and enjoy life for a little bit and see what the future holds. The only plans I have right now are personal plans.”

— Billy Hrvatin (hotsr.com)

What’s next

The Hot Springs Board of Directors will need to appoint a new police chief to replace Hrvatin after his retirement on May 15, 2026.

The takeaway

Hrvatin's retirement marks the end of an era for the Hot Springs Police Department, as he has been a fixture in the department for nearly three decades, serving in nearly every role. His leadership has been credited with reducing crime rates in the city, but the department has also struggled with staffing challenges during his tenure, an issue the next chief will need to address.