Tommy Norman, a North Little Rock police officer, became a national figure in May 2015 when he was called out by rapper Killer Mike (so called because he likes to kill microphones) on CNN as being a role model of how policing should be done.
After a series of events that sparked tremendous debate over policing and race relations, Norman was championed for his indiscriminate focus on serving every member of the community and for making sure no one felt left out.
Norman was “discovered” thanks to his brilliant use of social media, and his posts show how inclusive and community-focused policing can be. He now has more than a million followers on Instagram, and his posts are uplifting, inspiring daily reminders of how small things can make a big difference.
What made you want to become a police officer?
I wanted to become a policeman to give back to the community I was born and raised in, which is North Little Rock. I feel as if I owe the city a lot. So what better way to do that than to protect and serve the citizens by being a police officer and doing my part in making a difference in the lives of others. At the age of 13 I sponsored a child in another country through a program called “Feed the children.” I would send money (made by mowing grass) to this child to provide food and clothing. That’s when I knew that my calling in life was to help others, and it’s still going strong 30 years later.
What were the challenges you faced or the issues that became apparent when starting your service as a young officer, and how has your approach to policing changed over the years?
Developing relationships with members of the community was a challenge as a new officer, due to me learning the ropes of the job. But once I became more comfortable and settled, I realized quickly the power of positive policing and the benefits of actually spending more time out of the police car and getting to know people’s life stories. Staying committed is the key to it all.
You’ve been celebrated nationally as an emblem of how policing should be carried out, but you credit Chief Mike Davis as setting the standard. How does the chief inspire you to be a better policeman?
I’ve watched Chief Davis throughout the years and how he interacts with the community and treats everyone the same. The standards he’s set for his officers to follow speak a lot for the entire Police Department, which has played a part in inspiring me to carry on the tradition of community policing.
What is the most important thing that policing has taught you?
Policing has taught me that it’s not the uniform and badge that make a difference, but your heart, and how kindness and compassion can bridge the gap in a big way.
What is your favorite part of your day?
My favorite part of my day is putting on the uniform, looking in the mirror and thanking God for the opportunity to live my dream of becoming a police officer.
What is the biggest honor you have received?
One of the honors that I’m most proud of is being voted the 2011 Americas Most Wanted/Sprint National Police Officer of the Year. Upon receiving this honor, I was awarded $10,000, which I donated to local charities.
What are your favorite things to do in Little Rock and North Little Rock?
I really enjoy visits to the River Market in Little Rock, especially the Flying Fish. Also the Clinton Presidential Center and Pinnacle Mountain. North Little Rock is home, so some of my fondest memories are attending North Little Rock High School football and basketball games. I’m a big NLR Charging Wildcat fan. I also love the Big Dam Bridge and the river trail. I enjoy going there to get away and to meditate.
Find Tommy Norman on Instagram @tnorman23.