64 Kentucky State Police Troopers Promoted Into Leadership Roles Across the Commonwealth
BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY — Sixty-four members of the Kentucky State Police (KSP) have been promoted into new leadership roles, from sergeant to major, during a ceremony that honored their service, professionalism, and commitment to protecting communities across the state.
The event was led by Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman and KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr., who congratulated the newly promoted officers for their dedication to public safety and leadership excellence throughout the Commonwealth.
Officials Praise Troopers’ Service and Integrity
“These troopers and officers embody what it means to serve with courage, compassion, and integrity,” said Lt. Gov. Coleman, emphasizing that the group’s advancement reflects Kentucky’s statewide commitment to safety and accountability.
“Their leadership strengthens not only the Kentucky State Police but all of the Commonwealth’s 120 counties,” she added.
Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr. echoed that sentiment, highlighting that leadership in law enforcement goes beyond rank.
“It means guiding others with integrity and ensuring that those you lead have the support to succeed,” Burnett said. “I’m confident each of you will uphold the proud tradition of service that defines the Kentucky State Police.”
Promotions Span All Ranks and Regions
The list of promotions includes:
- Majors: Capt. David Archer and Capt. Timothy “Brad” Austin
- Captains: 11 statewide, including Lt. Robert Purdy (Post 11, London) and Lt. Alfred Bunch (Post 9, Pikeville)
- Lieutenants: 20 promoted, including Sgt. Levi Scott (Post 4, Elizabethtown) and Sgt. David Dick (Post 1, Mayfield)
- Sergeants: 31 promoted, including Tpr. Ashcon Karbasi, Tpr. Richard Ellis, and Tpr. Graham Rutherford, all from Post 3, Bowling Green
The ceremony underscored KSP’s mission to recruit and train future leaders, with officials encouraging interested Kentuckians to apply at JoinKSP.com.
Promotions Come Amid Statewide Safety Progress
The promotions follow a series of public safety improvements across Kentucky. The 2024 Crime in Kentucky Report showed a 7.66% drop in serious crime compared to the previous year. Additionally, overdose deaths fell for the third consecutive year, marking a 30.2% decline in 2024 alone.
KSP has also expanded its school safety initiatives, with more than 1,300 public schools now meeting School Safety and Resiliency Act standards and the number of school resource officers more than doubling since 2019.
As the Kentucky State Police continues building its next generation of leadership, officials say the agency remains focused on community protection, officer development, and statewide safety innovation. For more updates on law enforcement and community initiatives across Kentucky, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.