The Arkansas Sex Offender Assessment Committee (SOAC) convened a Zoom meeting today, February 27, 2026, to continue its oversight of sex offender assessment and community notification procedures within the state. The committee, established by Arkansas Code § 12-12-921, is responsible for reviewing guidelines, assigning Level 4 community notification status, and handling administrative reviews sought by offenders.
SOAC’s operate is closely linked to the Sex Offender Community Notification Assessment (SOCNA) program, which operates in conjunction with the committee to manage the assessment process. A legislative report from fiscal year 2025 details this relationship, noting that SOCNA and SOAC work together to manage assessment procedures.
The committee is comprised of nine members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. These members include a criminal defense attorney, a prosecuting attorney, and a licensed mental health professional with expertise in treating sex offenders, among others. The committee’s expenses are covered by the Arkansas Department of Corrections, with no dedicated revenue stream of its own.
Today’s meeting agenda, as indicated by a public notice, focused on professional management solutions and evidence-based rehabilitative initiatives for offenders. The committee’s stated mission is to provide safety and hope for Arkansans, and to contribute to public safety through its assessment and oversight functions. Details of specific cases reviewed or decisions made during the Zoom meeting were not immediately available.
The SOAC also reviews cases where offenders seek administrative review of their designation. The committee’s authority extends to voting on Level 4 community notification status, the highest level of public alert regarding sex offenders. The committee’s archives are maintained and accessible to the public, providing a record of its proceedings and decisions.
