Arkansas prison deaths nearly double since 2022, reports show

Annual deaths in Arkansas prisons have climbed sharply in recent years, nearly doubling since 2022, according to figures reported by the Arkansas Department of Corrections and published by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

State records show 51 deaths in correctional facilities were referred to Arkansas State Police in 2022. That number rose to 81 in 2023, 100 in 2024, and 110 through October 2025, the most recent month publicly reported. The department does not release the cause or manner of death in its annual summaries.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported that 21 suspected inmate suicides were recorded from January 2021 through December 2025. Family members of incarcerated people and corrections officials have pointed to the illegal introduction of drugs, including fentanyl and synthetic marijuana known as K2 or spice, as a major factor in the rising death toll.

Rand Champion, a spokesman for the Department of Corrections, said most deaths this year were from natural causes but are still referred to state police. He said drugs remain a growing problem, prompting increased efforts to stop contraband from entering facilities.

Relatives of inmates told the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that overdoses and deaths may be underreported and that inmates often shield families from what they witness inside. Others described synthetic cannabinoids as widespread and dangerous within prison units.

The department reported dozens of drug-related cases referred to state and federal authorities each year, including 61 drug introduction cases and 124 possession cases in 2025 alone.