LITTLE ROCK, Ark.— Following the Board of Correction’s politically motivated stunt to terminate Senate-confirmed Joe Profiri from his position as Secretary of the Department of Corrections, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced he will take a position in the Governor’s Office as Senior Advisor.

“My focus is on the safety of Arkansans and ending the failed policy of catch and early release of violent criminals in this state. Sadly, the Board of Corrections has chosen repeatedly to focus on pushing lies, political stunts, and power grabs,” said Governor Sanders. “We firmly support Joe Profiri as Secretary of Corrections and are proud of the accomplishments we’ve achieved together. During ongoing litigation Joe Profiri will be serving as a senior advisor to me in my office. I’m confident that Attorney General Griffin will successfully defend the law in court.”

“Having served in law enforcement and public safety roles at the local, state, and national level for over thirty years, it’s disappointing to see politics being played with the safety and security of Arkansans,” said Profiri. “Certain members of the Board are making false and misleading claims all in an effort to hold power and keep the status quo, which for decades has created a dangerous and broken system. The work of Corrections is to keep communities safe by retaining violent, repeat offenders and adequately preparing offender populations for reintegration. We must continue to work on the Governor’s bold plan to reduce crime and keep communities safe. I am happy to join the Governor’s office as Senior Advisor to continue this critical work.”