TIFS Investigates: Background of local non-profit founder leads to concerns about public trust and integrity

Fort Smith, Arkansas — Today in Fort Smith has confirmed that one of the founding members of the local nonprofit organization REVAMP (Remember Every Victim and Missing Person), Patti Rush, has a lengthy criminal history involving hot checks.

This revelation comes after Rush’s previous dismissal from Today in Fort Smith, where she allegedly misused her press badge to gain unauthorized access to law enforcement information related to local cold cases.

The nonprofit REVAMP, which aims to advocate for missing persons and unsolved cases, now finds itself under scrutiny. Rush’s prior employment with Today in Fort Smith was terminated following her alleged attempt to leverage her media credentials to access sensitive case details, a serious breach of journalistic ethics and trust with local law enforcement.

The misuse of her press access led Today in Fort Smith to sever ties with her and raised initial concerns about her professional integrity.

Further investigation has uncovered that Rush’s past includes numerous instances of check fraud, leading to criminal charges. This history of financial misconduct calls into question her role within REVAMP, an organization that relies heavily on public trust and donations to further its mission.

The involvement of individuals with criminal backgrounds in sensitive nonprofit roles has raised red flags, particularly given the nature of REVAMP’s work, which requires close collaboration with both the public and law enforcement.

As this story unfolds, Today in Fort Smith urges the community and stakeholders of REVAMP to evaluate the integrity and leadership of those who represent this nonprofit.

With the weight of Rush’s past actions coming to light, Today in Fort Smith remains committed to bringing transparency and accountability to those who aim to serve the public interest.