Hot Springs Police Chief, Assistant Chief Bid Farewell to Civil Service Commission

Hrvatin and Roach retire after decades of service to the department

Apr. 19, 2026 at 9:04am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge reflecting harsh, direct lighting, conveying a serious, investigative mood without any text or symbols.The retirements of two veteran Hot Springs police leaders mark a transition for the department as it seeks new leadership.Hot Springs Today

Hot Springs Police Chief Billy Hrvatin and Assistant Chief Shaun Roach attended their final Civil Service Commission meeting on Wednesday, as both are set to retire in the coming weeks after nearly three decades with the department. Commissioners commended the two officers for their years of service to the community.

Why it matters

The retirements of the police chief and assistant chief mark the end of an era for the Hot Springs Police Department, as new leadership will take over the department. The transition comes as the city has been working to fill several key positions within the department.

The details

Hrvatin, who has served as police chief since 2023, gave his final report to the Civil Service Commission on Wednesday. Roach, whom Hrvatin promoted from lieutenant after becoming chief, is also retiring at the end of the month. The city manager has narrowed the search for a new police chief down to three finalists, including Chris Chapmond, who previously served as Hot Springs police chief before taking a state-level role. Captains Larry Patrick and Scott Lampinen are also in the running for the top job.

  • Hrvatin and Roach will retire in the coming weeks, with Hrvatin's last day being just before the commission's next meeting in May.
  • Chapmond, Patrick, and Lampinen are finalists for the police chief position.

The players

Billy Hrvatin

Hot Springs Police Chief, retiring after nearly three decades with the department.

Shaun Roach

Hot Springs Police Assistant Chief, retiring at the end of the month after close to three decades with the department.

Sam Stathakis

Chairman of the Hot Springs Civil Service Commission.

Bill Burrough

Hot Springs City Manager, who has narrowed the search for a new police chief to three finalists.

Chris Chapmond

One of the three finalists for the Hot Springs police chief position, having previously served as chief before taking a state-level role.

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What they’re saying

“His departure is forthcoming in a couple of weeks, right before mine. This is my last meeting. I want to say I appreciate you guys and the support you've given the police department and fire department. I appreciate you volunteering and doing your part to make this community a little better.”

— Billy Hrvatin, Hot Springs Police Chief

“Thanks for all your years of service. Thank you for everything y'all have done. It's been an honor to know you guys. Thank you very much.”

— Sam Stathakis, Chairman, Hot Springs Civil Service Commission

What’s next

The Hot Springs Civil Service Commission will meet again next month to consider the three finalists for the police chief position, with the city manager expected to make a final selection in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The retirements of the Hot Springs police chief and assistant chief mark the end of an era for the department, as new leadership will take over amid the city's efforts to fill several key positions. The transition comes as the department has been recognized for its strong performance, with several recent graduates from the police academy earning top honors.