Osceola Police Chief Under Investigation After Slapping Man in Wheelchair

Newly appointed chief's actions captured in viral video prompt independent review by city

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:35pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a wheelchair wheel, the spokes and tire tread sharply lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the investigation into the police chief's actions.The slapping incident involving Osceola's police chief has sparked outrage and calls for an independent investigation into the use of force.Osceola Today

The recently appointed police chief in Osceola, Arkansas is under investigation after a video surfaced showing him slapping a man in a wheelchair. The incident, which occurred in front of several officers, has prompted the city to launch an independent review to ensure the facts are collected and evaluated in a fair, transparent, and accountable manner.

Why it matters

The video has sparked outrage in the community and raised concerns about the conduct and use of force by the newly appointed police chief. The investigation will examine whether the chief's actions were justified or constitute an abuse of power, with the city promising appropriate action based on the findings.

The details

In the video posted on Facebook, Police Chief Robert "Bobby" Ephlin is seen standing in front of a man in a wheelchair, surrounded by around six other people. Ephlin is heard telling the man "That right there is why you're going to go to jail," before slapping him. After the slap, Ephlin moves behind the wheelchair as other officers crowd around the man.

  • The video was posted on Facebook late Monday night, April 6, 2026.
  • Ephlin was appointed as Osceola's police chief just over a week ago.

The players

Robert "Bobby" Ephlin

The recently appointed police chief of Osceola, Arkansas, whose actions in slapping a man in a wheelchair were captured in a viral video.

Joe Harris Jr.

The mayor of Osceola, who called for an independent review into Ephlin's conduct.

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What they’re saying

“That right there is why you're going to go to jail.”

— Robert "Bobby" Ephlin, Police Chief

“You're not going to talk to me like that.”

— Robert "Bobby" Ephlin, Police Chief

What’s next

The City of Osceola has launched an independent review by an outside agency to ensure the facts are collected and evaluated in a fair, transparent and accountable manner. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of this review.

The takeaway

This incident has raised serious concerns about the conduct and use of force by the newly appointed police chief in Osceola. The independent investigation will be closely watched by the community, as it will determine whether the chief's actions were justified or constitute an abuse of power that requires disciplinary action.