Little Rock Attorney Bobby Forrest Jr. Runs for Prosecutor

Little Rock, Arkansas — Bobby Forrest Jr., a defense attorney and small-business owner, has entered the race for the Sixth Judicial Circuit prosecutor position in Perry and Pulaski counties. Forrest, 33, announced his candidacy on Friday, aiming to challenge incumbent Will Jones in the upcoming nonpartisan election set for March.

Forrest, who owns The Chosen Law Group and a restaurant named Xperience Kitchen and Lounge, articulated his vision as he prepares to unveil a five-point plan called SMART Justice on his campaign website. This initiative aims to address violent crime, support victims, and reform the justice system.

As a father and a local resident, Forrest hopes to become the first Black elected prosecutor in the district’s history. He emphasizes his unique perspective, shaped by personal loss; his sister Ursula Graham was murdered in North Little Rock last October. He intends to channel his grief into a commitment to public safety.

The upcoming election will coincide with Arkansas’s political primaries, with the elected prosecutor assuming office in January 2027. Will Jones, 50, is seeking a second term after winning the position with 53% of the vote in 2022. His campaign boasts achievements like crime reduction and enhanced victim services.

Forrest criticized the current state of public safety, highlighting 25 murders in the region this year and describing it as a crisis threatening families. He aims to create a legal system that emphasizes compassion and understanding rather than solely punishment.

Addressing media on Friday, Forrest stated, “Mothers are burying sons and places that were once safe are now crime scenes. Families are scared and desperate for change.” His commitment to public safety is deeply personal and driven by the loss of his sister.

Forrest stated, “That pain lit a fire in me, a deeper drive to stop the bleeding, to prevent another family from feeling what mine has felt.” He aims to transform the prosecutor’s office to ensure justice is served appropriately while maintaining community safety.

The dynamic between the candidates sets the stage for an interesting race as both aim to reshape the perceptions and realities of their communities’ safety and justice.