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Osceola Today
By the People, for the People
Osceola Appoints Detective Wels Skaggs as Interim Police Chief
Skaggs takes over after resignation of former chief Bobby Ephlin following controversial incident
Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:20pm
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The appointment of a new interim police chief in Osceola aims to restore public trust after the controversial actions of the previous chief.Osceola TodayThe city of Osceola, Arkansas has appointed Detective Wels Skaggs as the interim police chief, following the resignation of former chief Bobby Ephlin. Ephlin stepped down after being caught on video slapping a man in a wheelchair.
Why it matters
The appointment of Skaggs as interim chief comes at a critical time for the Osceola Police Department, as they work to rebuild trust with the community following the controversial incident involving the former chief. Skaggs' extensive law enforcement experience and local ties may help provide stability during the transition.
The details
Detective Wels Skaggs is a lifelong resident of Mississippi County, graduating from Rivercrest High School in 2004. He began his law enforcement career with the Keiser Police Department in 2007 and joined the Osceola Police Department in 2011, working his way up to Captain of the Criminal Investigation Division in 2022. Skaggs has also served on the 2nd Judicial District Drug Task Force and as an FBI Task Force Officer.
- Skaggs began his law enforcement career in August 2007.
- He graduated from LETA in November 2008.
- Skaggs was hired by the Osceola Police Department Patrol Division in April 2011.
- He transferred to the Criminal Investigation Division in January 2014.
- Skaggs was appointed as interim police chief in April 2026.
The players
Wels Skaggs
A lifelong resident of Mississippi County, Skaggs has over 15 years of law enforcement experience, including roles with the Keiser Police Department, Osceola Police Department, 2nd Judicial District Drug Task Force, and FBI Task Force.
Bobby Ephlin
The former Osceola Police Chief who resigned after being caught on video slapping a man in a wheelchair.
Joe Harris, Jr.
The Mayor of Osceola, Arkansas who appointed Wels Skaggs as the interim police chief.
What they’re saying
“We must restore trust and confidence in the Osceola Police Department, and I believe Wels Skaggs is the right person to lead us through this transition.”
— Joe Harris, Jr., Mayor of Osceola
What’s next
The city council will hold a public meeting next month to discuss the search for a permanent police chief.
The takeaway
The appointment of Wels Skaggs as interim police chief in Osceola represents an opportunity to rebuild community trust and stability in the police department following a controversial incident involving the former chief. Skaggs' local ties and law enforcement experience may help guide the department through this transition period.
