The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Arkansas Division of the Southern States PBA are rallying behind the family of Atkins police officer Dolphus Schmelzla who died from injuries he sustained in a motor vehicle accident while on his way to work on Thursday, August 29, 2013. Officer Schmelzla had over 20 years of law enforcement experience and was a valued member of the Atkins Police Department.  Dolphus was a great officer who will be missed tremendously by the Atkins Police Department, as well as other surrounding law enforcement agencies.

The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a “Benefit Account for Dolphus Schmelzla” at River Town Bank.  Donations can be made at any River Town Bank to assist in efforts to provide financial support to Officer Schmelzla’s family in this time of need.  Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation’s website by clicking Here and be sure to designate the donation to the “Benefit Account for Dolphus Schmelzla.”The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text message in memory of Officer Schmelzla. You can help Officer Schmelzla’s family by texting, “COPS DOLPHUS” to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. 

The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Officer Schmelzla’s family will need everyone to rally behind them during this difficult time.Arkansas PBA Division President Scott Hicks said, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Officer Schmelzla’s family during this difficult time.  This incident reminds us all of the dangers that law enforcement officers face and the community support that is needed for our brave men and women who protect us every day.”It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and ARPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in efforts to provide much needed support to this officer’s family in this time of distress.

Officer Schmelzla’s funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 3^rd at 10am at the Restoration Church located at 2349 S. Elmira Ave. in Russellville, AR.  Visitation will be at Broussard Funeral Home on Monday, September 2nd from noon till 5pm. Broussard Funeral Home is located at 3323 E. 6^th St, Russellville, AR 72802 and can be reached at 479-968-1143.