Arkansas State Police announced this week that Sgt. Matt Foster, Special Agent Heath Gurley, and Special Agent Dustin Thompson of the Criminal Investigation Division’s Human Trafficking Unit have been named recipients of the 2026 Senator Percy Malone Child Protection Award. The award was presented during the annual Child Protection Luncheon held Thursday, April 2, in Little Rock.
The Senator Percy Malone Child Protection Award is presented by the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas, a nonprofit organization that coordinates and supports a network of child advocacy centers that provide child-focused, trauma-informed services to victims of abuse and neglect. The organization brings together law enforcement, child protective services, prosecutors, medical professionals, and victim advocates to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated response to child maltreatment cases.
As members of the Arkansas Human Trafficking Task Force, Sgt. Foster, SA Gurley, and SA Thompson play a critical role in identifying, investigating, and combating human trafficking across Arkansas. Their work includes conducting complex criminal investigations, coordinating with local, state, and federal partners, and providing victim-centered support to exploited and vulnerable children.
“We are truly honored to receive the Senator Percy Malone Child Protection Award,” said Sgt. Foster. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team. Every day, we work together to protect children and support families, and it’s our shared commitment, teamwork, and perseverance that allow us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”
The annual event brings together child protection professionals, state leaders, and community advocates to recognize individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to protecting Arkansas children and strengthening the collaborative response to abuse.
Additional honorees include Brandi Cannon, Supervisor of Clinical Services at the Cooper-Anthony Mercy Child Advocacy Center, recipient of the CAC Impact Award, and Norene Smith, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for White County, recipient of the MDT Excellence Award.
“These honorees represent the best of Arkansas’ commitment to protecting children,” said Elizabeth Pulley, executive director of Children’s Advocacy Centers. “Their work ensures children who experience abuse are met with compassion, professionalism, and a coordinated response designed to help them heal.”
Across Arkansas, a network of 18 Child Advocacy Centers and 64 multidisciplinary teams work together to provide the state’s coordinated response to child abuse. These teams bring together professionals from law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, medical care, mental health, and victim advocacy to support children in safe, child-focused environments. CACar supports this statewide network by providing training, advocacy, and resources that strengthen local centers and the professionals who serve children.
“Protecting children is at the heart of our mission,” said Col. Mike Hagar, Director of the Arkansas State Police. “Sergeant Foster, Special Agent Gurley, and Special Agent Thompson exemplify the professionalism, compassion, and determination required to confront human trafficking and bring offenders to justice. The Arkansas State Police is grateful to the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas for recognizing their outstanding service.”
The Human Trafficking Unit focuses on proactive and reactive investigations involving the exploitation of children and adults, with an emphasis on rescuing victims and building strong cases against traffickers. Through their efforts, Sgt. Foster, SA Gurley, and SA Thompson have helped create safer communities for families across the state.
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