LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson today announced his appointment of Lt. Col. Forrest Marks as Colonel of the Arkansas State Police (ASP). Lt. Col. Marks is succeeding Col. Bill Bryant, who will retire on December 31, 2022.

Lt. Col. Marks has served in the Arkansas State Police since he began as a Trooper in 1994. Throughout his time at ASP, Lt. Col. Marks has served as Post Sergeant, Highway Patrol Assistant Troop Commander, Troop Commander, and Division Commander. He currently serves as Acting Lieutenant Colonel for Field Operations.

"I'm grateful for Lt. Col. Marks's nearly 30 years in law enforcement and his dedication to the Arkansas State Police," Governor Hutchinson said. "I appreciate his willingness to serve as Colonel, and I am confident he will lead our State Police with integrity and honesty."

Prior to joining the Arkansas State Police in 1995, Lt. Col. Marks served as a patrolman for the Hot Springs Police Department and as a military police officer for the United States Army.

Lt. Col. Marks's appointment will remain in effect until Governor-Elect Sanders's Colonel Designate, Captain Mike Hagar, assumes the position.