MONTICELLO, Ark. — On June 23, Lieutenant Adam Barnes of the University of Arkansas at Monticello (UAM) University Police Department (UPD) heard a radio call regarding a choking infant at an off‑campus apartment near UAM. Arriving in under a minute, Lt. Barnes was soon joined by Monticello Police Department Officer Evans Ferguson. With no ambulance immediately available, Lt. Barnes moved the infant into the back of Officer Ferguson’s unit and began CPR and back blows while they drove to the emergency room. By the time they reached the hospital, the child was breathing well.
For his outstanding performance while on duty, on July 9, Lt. Barnes received a Certificate of Commendation from the UPD citing his “decisive actions” which “reflect greatly on himself, the University Police Department and the University of Arkansas at Monticello.”
“Officer Barnes performed his duties as a professional should,” Chief John Kidwell, director of the UPD, said. “He gave life-saving care in a very stressful situation. I appreciate his actions for the infant and his representation of the University Police Department.”
Dr. Peggy Doss, chancellor of UAM, praised Lt. Barnes and the UPD, stating, “UAM is truly fortunate to have one of the most professional and highly trained police departments. Each officer, including Lieutenant Adam Barnes, is dedicated to assisting individuals both on campus and within the surrounding community. Recognizing their selfless service is of utmost importance, as our officers consistently go above and beyond to foster strong relationships with students, staff, faculty and community members. I am profoundly grateful that Lieutenant Barnes was prepared to act on June 23 to save a life, and I appreciate the effectiveness of his training in that critical moment.”
A Fordyce native who now resides in Warren, Lt. Barnes has served in law enforcement since 2011 and joined the UPD full time in 2014. He is also a UAM graduate student, on track to finish a Master of Physical Education and Coaching degree this December, an education that he says is making him a better police leader.
A proud father, Lt. Barnes admitted that his “dad mode” kicked in that morning and said he feels a strong calling to serve the university, as his wife, his mother, both of his grandfathers and several of his extended family members attended UAM. He also credited the swift, multi‑officer response and the strong working relationship between the UPD and the Monticello Police Department for the successful outcome — another example of UPD officers’ training, teamwork and commitment to the community they serve.
