Bluegrass Beat

Crime doesn’t stop at city or county lines — and effective public safety can’t either.In this episode of the Bluegrass Beat, host Critley King Smith explores the Bluegrass and Central Kentucky Unified Police Protection System (BACKUPPS), a statewide cooperative program designed to help law enforcement agencies work together across jurisdictions.First, BACKUPPS Chairman and Georgetown Police Chief Darin Allgood breaks down how the program works today, including governance, standard operating procedures, training, and what agencies need to know about joining. He also addresses common questions about communication, accountability and operating in another agency’s jurisdiction.Then, Commissioner Mike Bosse, who helped write the original framework for BACKUPPS in 2014, reflects on the program’s creation and history. He discusses why cooperation is essential to modern policing, the importance of setting aside egos and “kingdoms,” and how unified leadership ultimately strengthens public safety for both officers and the communities they serve.Together, these conversations highlight why collaboration, shared training and a common mission are critical tools in keeping Kentucky safe.About our GuestsDarin Allgood, BACKUPPS Chairman & Georgetown Police ChiefChief Allgood was appointed Chief of Police on January 13, 2023, and has served the department since 2012. He held various ranks during his tenure, including assistant chief of police, police captain, Criminal Investigations Section (CIS) lieutenant, CIS sergeant, administrative sergeant, CIS detective, and police officer. Chief Allgood has also worked for the Department of Criminal Justice Training in Richmond, Kentucky, and for the Huntersville, North Carolina Police Department, where he began his law enforcement career in 1995.Chief Allgood earned a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Western Carolina University and a master’s in safety, security and emergency management from Eastern Kentucky University. Chief Allgood is a graduate of the Academy of Police Supervision and the FBI National Academy, Class 284.Chief Allgood is a certified instructor through the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council and has taught classes for the Department of Criminal Justice Training and Georgetown College. He has also served as a facilitator/adjunct professor at EKU, teaching classes in the Safety, Security, and Emergency Management program.Mike Bosse, DOCJT CommissionerMike Bosse was appointed commissioner of the Department of Criminal Justice Training by Gov. Andy Beshear on Nov. 1, 2024. He joined DOCJT in March 2024 as deputy commissioner and served in Kentucky law enforcement for over 41 years. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with High Distinction, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Police Administration. Bosse served as Georgetown Police chief for 10 years. Prior to this appointment, he spent 30 years with the Lexington Division of Police, where he moved through the ranks of patrolman, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, major and retired at the rank of assistant chief of police. Bosse spent a total of 12 years working in the Bureau of Investigations with the Lexington Division of Police, working most of that time in Special Investigations. In addition to his undercover and supervisory experience in narcotics investigations, he spent 20 years working with Kentucky’s drug courts, five years working a drug detection K-9, five years as a board member of the Fayette County ASAP Board, three years as chairman of the Mayor’s Alliance on Substance Abuse. He has served as a member of Scott County Against Drugs board, has been a member of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals Law Enforcement Committee and was appointed to the NADCP Board of Directors, which conducts research and provides training to our nation’s drug courts. Bosse is a certified instructor for the Department of Criminal Justice Training and is recognized by both Federal and State courts as an expert in police administration, including the use of force by police. Bosse has reviewed thousands of uses of force by police and has prepared reports in state and federal courts on over 50 occasions. Bosse was appointed to the Board of Licensure for Private Investigators by Governor Steve Beshear in 2014.Bosse graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2000 and has conducted numerous leadership trainings around the country. He served as a member of Kentucky Law Enforcement Council for 7 years where he chaired the Professional Standards Committee for 4 years.…The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky. Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback. Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this first episode of 2026, Special Assistant Amy Hess discusses what can be expected from the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training in the new year.Featured GuestAmy Hess, DOCJT Special AssistantWith nearly 35 years of experience in public safety, Amy Hess has held leadership roles across federal, state, and local government. She currently serves as special assistant in Kentucky’s Department of Criminal Justice Training, after holding the position of executive advisor in the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet. As Chief of Public Safety for Louisville Metro Government, she played a key role in the city’s response to the coronavirus pandemic and civil unrest in 2020-2021. For 29 years before that, Ms. Hess was a Special Agent and senior executive in the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assignments in Kansas City, Louisville, Tucson, Afghanistan, Memphis, Quantico, and Washington, D.C. Her FBI career culminated with promotion to Special Agent in Charge of two field offices and Executive Assistant Director over two branches at FBI headquarters. She resides in Louisville and holds a degree in Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering from Purdue UniversityLearn MoreKentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training…The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this special episode of The Bluegrass Beat, host Critley King-Smith explores Project Heart Restart, an initiative working to place automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in every police cruiser across the Commonwealth of Kentucky.Hear how this mission is already saving lives, and why AED access in cruisers can change outcomes for families and communities across the state.Featured GuestsJosh Vogel & Matt Mangine — Project Heart RestartLucas Cooper — Alexandria Police ChiefWhitney Buerger — Former Alexandria Police Officer who saved a young man's life just two days after her agency received an AEDThis emotional and inspiring episode highlights the power of preparedness, partnership, and purpose.Learn MoreProject Heart Restarthttps://projectheartrestart.org/Matthew Mangine Jr. One Shot Foundationhttps://www.oneshot.life/…The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music/Sounds:"Cold Funk" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"Parting of the Ways - Part 1" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Clock Ticking Down - Dragon Studio via PixabayHeartbeat with Beep - Freesound Community via Pixabay

Raising salaries and increasing in-service options are discussed as Commissioner Mike Bosse returns to the Bluegrass Beat and Director of Training Operations David Hay makes his first appearance.For more information, follow this link, https://www.docjt.ky.gov/, and select the Training tab.Look for the 2026 Course Book to be released soon.…The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode of the Bluegrass Beat, meet new State School Security Marshal Shannon West and hear about his background, his hopes for the office, his team, and his mission of keeping kids safe.Click the link below for more information about the Office of the State School Security Marshal.https://www.docjt.ky.gov/state-school-security-marshalABOUT OUR GUESTSHANNON WEST, STATE SCHOOL SECURITY MARSHALShannon West was appointed as Kentucky’s State School Security Marshal by Governor Andy Beshear on July 16, 2025. With more than 30 years of dedicated service in public safety, West brings extensive leadership, operational and training experience to the role overseeing the safety and security of Kentucky’s schools.A veteran of the United States Army and the Kentucky Army National Guard, Shannon served a combined nine years in uniform before joining the Kentucky State Police (KSP). During his 20-plus years with KSP, he held several key positions, including trooper, Special Response Team (SRT) leader, detective sergeant, and investigations commander. His assignments spanned multiple posts in Mayfield, Bowling Green, Henderson, Pikeville, Richmond (SRT) and Elizabethtown—culminating in his retirement as a lieutenant from his home post in Bowling Green.In July 2015, West joined the Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT) as a law enforcement training instructor. He advanced to become the Tactics Section Supervisor, where he oversaw specialized instruction in active shooter response, traffic stop and counter-ambush tactics, structure searches, low-light operations, warrant service, tactical medicine, and other high-risk operational skills. For the two years leading up to his appointment as marshal, West served as the In-Service Branch manager, overseeing statewide training programs for Kentucky’s law enforcement officers.West holds multiple advanced certifications, including Force Science Analyst and Advanced Specialist, Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Use-of-Force Instructor, and Centrifuge Vehicle Close Quarters Battle (CQB) Instructor.…The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.7Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode of the Bluegrass Beat, Office of Drug Control Policy Executive Director Van Ingram discusses the ways that the commonwealth is working to successfully reduce overdose deaths in Kentucky, options law enforcement agencies have to help, and community resources. For more information on the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Police and the resources they provide, visit https://odcp.ky.gov/Pages/index.aspx ABOUT OUR GUESTVAN INGRAM, OFFICE OF DRUG CONTROL POLICY EXECUTIVE DIRECTORVan Ingram is the Executive Director for the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy. Van joined ODCP in November 2004, shortly after it was created with the mission of coordinating Kentucky’s substance abuse efforts in enforcement, treatment and prevention/education. Van served with the Maysville Police Department for more than 23 years, the last six as Chief of Police. He is a former President of the Kentucky Association of Chiefs of Police and was named “Kentucky Chief of the Year” in 2001. He is the 2004 recipient of the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Law Enforcement and the Melvin Shein Award for distinguished service to Kentucky law enforcement. Van is a certified law enforcement instructor and has trained officers across the state on a variety of topics, including community-oriented policing, case management, and “Kentucky Substance Abuse Issues” for Chiefs, Sheriffs and command staff. He is a frequent speaker on a variety of substance abuse issues both in Kentucky and across the country. …The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.7Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode of the Bluegrass Beat, Georgetown’s Lt. Mitch Lair talks about the use of social workers and victim advocates with law enforcement agencies, the benefits, pitfalls and ways to bring this valuable service to your own agency.About Our GuestLt. Mitch Lair, Georgetown Police DepartmentMitch Lair began his law enforcement career when he joined the United States Army Military Police Corp. and graduated from the Military Police Academy in 2008. He then attended Western Kentucky University and graduated with a degree in history and sociology. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2012 for Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2015, Lair joined the Georgetown Police Department and graduated from the Department of Criminal Justice Training academy as class leader. He served as a community relations officer from 2017 until his promotion to sergeant in 2019. He led the second shift patrol before taking over duties as the administrative sergeant, and then was promoted to his current rank of lieutenant in August 2021. Lair graduated from DOCJT’s Academy of Police Supervision in 2022 and the Criminal Justice Executive Development course in 2024. He is involved with honor guard, traffic reconstruction, hostage negotiations, defensive tactics and the training unit. Lair is the department's Special Operations lieutenant…The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.7Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode, Kentucky Law Enforcement Council Executive Director Rob Ratliff explains the organization he represents, its mission to maintain integrity and standardization in law enforcement training, and its role as a resource to agencies across the state.About Our GuestRob Ratliff, Kentucky Law Enforcement Council DirectorRob Ratliff is the executive director of the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council, appointed by Gov. Andy Beshear in August 2024. With 34 years in local law enforcement—including a decade as Ashland’s Chief of Police—he’s a seasoned leader in officer training, certification, and public safety policy. Ratliff previously served on the council for eight years and has held multiple leadership roles in state policing organizations.…..The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.7Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

Join host Critley King-Smith in a conversation with Department of Criminal Justice Training Deputy Commissioner Brian Bowling and Telecommunications Section Supervisor Lee Ann Boyle to discuss the introduction of the Telecommunications Overview Training Standards, updates to the Public Safety Dispatch Academy curriculum and honoring the heroes behind the headset as we move toward National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.Click here for more information about the Public Safety Dispatch Academy : https://www.docjt.ky.gov/telecommunicationsAbout Our GuestsBrian Bowling, Department of Criminal Justice Training Deputy Commissioner and KLEMF Board ChairBrian Bowling brings over thirty years of dedicated law enforcement service to his role as deputy commissioner. Before his appointment, he served as Chief of the Flemingsburg Police Department, following a distinguished 23-year career with the Kentucky State Police, from which he retired as a Captain. Bowling holds a bachelor’s degree in police administration from Eastern Kentucky University and a master’s degree in administration of justice from the University of the Cumberlands.Lee Ann Boyle, Telecommunications Section SupervisorBefore joining DOCJT, Lee Ann Boyle began her career as a dispatcher for the City of Berea, KY, and joined the Berea Police Department as an officer in 1999. There she served 19 years and was named the 2003 Police Officer of the Year. At DOCJT, Boyle has been an instructor, class coordinator, and currently, supervisor of the Telecommunications Section. In 2019, she was honored with the Kentucky Women’s Law Enforcement Network’s Lifetime Achievement Award. She holds a bachelor’s degree in police administration and has presented Senate Citation at the state’s capital child exploitation cases.…..The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.7Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode of the Bluegrass Beat, Commissioner Mike Bosse returns to the podcast to discuss exciting changes at the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training, including reduced wait times for training, improved communication, and expansion. Commissioner Bosse also talks about the importance of building relationships with the Commonwealth's chiefs, sheriffs, and telecommunications directors is to DOCJT’s mission.About Our Guest Mike Bosse, DOCJT Commissioner Mike Bosse was appointed commissioner of the Department of Criminal Justice Training by Gov. Andy Beshear on Nov. 1, 2024. He joined DOCJT in March 2024 as deputy commissioner and served in Kentucky law enforcement for over 41 years. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with High Distinction, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Police Administration. Bosse served as Georgetown Police chief for 10 years. Prior to this appointment, he spent 30 years with the Lexington Division of Police, where he retired at the rank of assistant chief of police. In addition to undercover and supervisory experience in narcotics investigations, he spent 20 years working with Kentucky’s drug courts, five years working a drug detection K-9, five years as a board member of the Fayette County ASAP Board, three years as chairman of the Mayor’s Alliance on Substance Abuse. He has served as a member of Scott County Against Drugs board, has been a member of the National Association of Drug Court Professionals Law Enforcement Committee and was appointed to the NADCP Board of Directors, which conducts research and provides training to our nation’s drug courts. Bosse is a certified instructor for the Department of Criminal Justice Training and is recognized by both Federal and State courts as an expert in police administration, including the use of force by police. Bosse has reviewed thousands of uses of force by police and has prepared reports in state and federal courts on over 50 occasions. Bosse was appointed to the Board of Licensure for Private Investigators by Governor Steve Beshear in 2014.Bosse graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2000 and has conducted numerous leadership trainings nationwide. He served as a member of the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council for 7 years, where he chaired the Professional Standards Committee for 4 years.…..The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky. Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.7Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback. Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this kickoff episode of the new year, the Bluegrass Beat dives into one of the most significant changes within the Commonwealth: the recent legalization of medical cannabis.Joining us are Sam Flynn, Executive Director of the Office of Medical Cannabis, David Gregory, Director of Law Enforcement Outreach, and Ingrid Geiser, Legal Training Instructor at the Department of Criminal Justice Training.Together, they explore the key aspects of the new law, resources available to peace officers, and the critical information every officer needs as this legislation takes effect. Whether you're in law enforcement or simply want to stay informed, this episode is packed with essential insights.Tune in now to stay ahead of the curve!For more information about the Office of Medical Cannabis, click here.The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.ABOUT OUR GUESTSSAM FLYNN, OFFICE OF MEDICAL CANNABIS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOROn June 1, 2023, Governor Andy Beshear appointed Sam Flynn to serve as Special Advisor to the Governor and Executive Director for Kentucky’s Medical Cannabis Program (now Office of Medical Cannabis). Since his appointment, Flynn has overseen the creation, design and implementation of the program.Flynn is the former chief of staff and general counsel to the Education and Labor Cabinet. Flynn’s service to the Commonwealth also includes serving as general counsel to the Kentucky Labor Cabinet, as well as deputy general counsel in the Finance and Administration Cabinet. Prior to his current state service, Flynn was appointed assistant attorney general to then-Attorney General Andy Beshear. Flynn has also clerked for United States District Judge Joseph M. Hood and began his legal career in private practice. He graduated from the University of Kentucky and Northern Kentucky University Salmon P. Chase College of Law.DAVID GREGORY, OFFICE OF MEDICAL CANNABIS DIRECTOR OF LAW ENFORCEMENT OUTREACHOn December 1, 2024, David Gregory was appointed as Director of Law Enforcement Outreach within the Office of Medical Cannabis. Before that, David worked for the Department of Criminal Justice Training as a law enforcement instructor. Prior to coming to DOCJT, David worked for the City of Berea and retired after 27 years of serving in several positions, including city administrator, police chief, police lieutenant, police sergeant and police officer.David graduated from the FBI National Academy, holds a Master of Public Administration Degree from EKU, and holds a bachelor’s degree in Police Studies from EKU. He is also a KLEC-certified police Instructor.INGRID GEISER, DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE LEGAL TRAINING ATTORNEYIngrid Geiser has been a Legal Training attorney with the Department of Criminal Justice Training since March 2023.  Geiser retired from the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office in Louisville, Kentucky, after 20 years of service in several positions, including Backfire prosecutor, Warrant Court Division chief, Special Victims Unit Division chief, Criminal Division director and first assistant.  Prior to that, she served as an assistant Commonwealth’s attorney in Jefferson County, where she served as a Narcotics Unit prosecutor and a Domestic Violence Unit prosecutor.Geiser is a graduate of the University of Kentucky and the School of Law at the University of Louisville.

In this episode of Bluegrass Beat, we sit down with Angela Childers, a dedicated and award-winning Mental Health Professional at the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training. Angela shares her passion for helping peace officers and dispatchers recover from post-critical incident injuries, discusses the unique challenges they face and the vital role of mental health support in their recovery.For more information about DOCJT’s Resiliency Section, click here.For information about the Kentucky Post-Critical Incident Seminar, click here.About Our GuestAngela Childers serves as a mental health professional at the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training and the Kentucky Post-Critical Incident Seminar clinical director. Prior to joining the department in 2019, Childers was a trauma therapist for the Soldier Center in Clarksville, Tennessee. She is an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)- licensed provider and recently received a lifetime achievement award from the Kentucky Women’s Law Enforcement Network for her work with peace officer and telecommunicator mental health. The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

As a 13-year-old, Alex Otte was the victim of an intoxicated boater. Now, she is a victorious voice for safety, DUI enforcement and the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Regional Executive Director for Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Hear her speak with Bluegrass Beat Host Critley King-Smith about her story, what peace officers can do to help keep impaired drivers and boaters off roads and waterways, and how MADD is partnering and communicating with law enforcement.Find out more about MADD here.About Our GuestAlex Otte, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Regional Executive Director for Indiana, Kentucky, and TennesseeAlex Otte is the Regional Executive Director overseeing MADD Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee, and the Immediate Past National President of MADD. Alex came to MADD after suffering a near-fatal crash caused by an intoxicated boater in 2010, when she was just 13 years old. Since then, she has dedicated her life to fighting for a day when no other child is forced to face such a tragedy. The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode of the Bluegrass Beat podcast, Department of Criminal Justice Training Instructor Jim Root and University of Louisville Associate Professor Bradley Campbell discuss their work creating a victim-centered interview course, the techniques used, evidence-based research and how Kentucky is leading the way and going beyond just the facts to solving crimes.About Our GuestsJim Root, Department of Criminal Justice Training InstructorJim Root is an instructor for the Department of Criminal Justice Training, teaching Investigations, Victim Interviews, and Forensic Genetic Genealogy consultation. Root currently provides case consultations and specific training on investigative techniques to various law enforcement agencies around the state. He has taught and written statewide programs on sexual assault, domestic violence and child abuse investigations.Previously, Root worked with the Office of the Attorney for two years, and at the Lexington Police Department from January 1996 till his retirement in February 2014. While employed at the Lexington Police Department, he spent 13 years in the Special Victim Section, which focused on crimes against children. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Eastern Kentucky University as well as a Master of Justice Administration from the University of the Cumberlands. Mr. Root teaches criminal justice topics as an adjunct professor at Eastern Kentucky University.Bradley Campbell, University of Louisville Associate ProfessorBrad Campbell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and a Faculty member of the Southern Police Institute at the University of Louisville. His research focuses on police investigations, decision-making, training evaluation and response to victims. Campbell has been the lead researcher on two federally funded projects. He is currently the principal research partner on the Kentucky Sexual Assault Kit Backlog Action Research Project funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, a study that examines the problem of unsubmitted sexual assault kits in Kentucky. Campbell’s recent research has been published in the Journal of Experimental Criminology, Journal of Criminal Justice, and Criminal Justice & Behavior. He has taught courses on Policing, Trauma Informed Policing, and Research Methods. The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

Retired State School Security Marshal Ben Wilcox talks about the 2024 school safety report, being an SRO, a career of firsts, and being responsible for Kentucky’s kids. He also gives advice for future successors and a final message to law enforcement, teachers, and families as he prepares to start his retirement.View the school safety report here.Read more about the Office of the State School Security Marshal here.TextAbout Our GuestBen Wilcox, Retired Kentucky State School Security MarshalBen Wilcox began his career at the Department of Criminal Justice Training in 2004 and served as the State School Security Marshal, an office created in 2019 after the passage of the School Safety and Resiliency Act until his retirement on September 1, 2024.Prior to that, Wilcox was the supervisor of the Instructional Design section, where he was responsible for all testing, curriculum, lesson plans, and instructional material at the agency. He also worked as an instructor in the Driving, Firearms, and Coordination sections.Before coming to DOCJT, Wilcox spent six years with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy and school resource officer working with students in kindergarten through 12th grade.During his law enforcement career, Wilcox served as the President of the EKU Association of Law Enforcement from 1997-1998, was honored with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Deputy of the Year award in 2001, and was nominated for DOCJT’s Instructor of the Year award in 2009 and 2014.He holds a bachelor’s degree in police administration and a master’s degree in career and technical education, with a concentration in occupational training and development, both from Eastern Kentucky University.Wilcox and his wife Angie have two daughters, Alexandria and Addison.The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode, Justice and Public Safety Cabinet Secretary Keith Jackson discusses the steps taken by the Beshear-Coleman administration to create a safer Kentucky, protect law enforcement, strengthen communication with public safety leaders and enhance law enforcement training. Show MaterialsGov. Beshear: Overdose Deaths Decline for Second-Straight Year, Nearly 10% Decrease in 2023Kentucky Releases 2023 Crime in Kentucky Report About Our GuestKeith Jackson, Justice and Public Safety Cabinet SecretarySince February 2024, Keith Jackson has served as Secretary of the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet. Immediately prior to stepping into this leadership role, Jackson served as the cabinet's deputy secretary. He understands the cabinet's critical role in creating safer communities for all and works to ensure the safety and security of Kentucky communities through an approach centered on protecting citizens, restoring victims, and reforming wrongdoers – all in a focused environment where everything is measured for accountability and performance.Prior to joining the cabinet, Secretary Jackson served as commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs where he was the Governor's representative and advisor on all veterans-related matters and was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the department. Before joining state government, Secretary Jackson served for 27 years in the U.S. Army Reserves in numerous capacities ranging from platoon leader to Battalion Commander. During his career, he served in Iraq and earned the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Combat Action Badge. In addition to his military service, he served for 24 years with the Lexington Fire Department, first as a firefighter before working as an Emergency Medical Technician and working his way up through the department’s ranks. In 2012, he made history by becoming the first African American appointed as Chief of the Lexington Division of Fire and Emergency Services. Podcast Production InfoThe Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode, Dawson Springs Police Chief Mike Opalek discusses policing in a tight-knit community, recovering from natural disasters, the impact of DOCJT drone training, drone technology in policing, and how the greater law enforcement family came to help his town during their time of need. The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this powerful and enlightening episode, Department of Criminal Justice Training Resiliency Instructor Gabe Gillingham and his wife, Melissa Gillingham, discuss post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) among first responders and its ripple effects on their families and marriages. Tune in to hear the Gillinghams share their own personal journey through PTSI, restoration, helping others heal, and their continued work through the Kentucky Post-Critical Incidence Seminar (KYPCIS).  For more information about DOCJT’s Resiliency Section, click here.For information about the Kentucky Post-Critical Incident Seminar, click here.Contact Gillingham at gabe.gillingham@ky.gov.The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky.Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback.Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx.

In this episode of Bluegrass Beat, Flemingsburg Police Chief and Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation (KLEMF) Board Chair Brian Bowling speaks with host Critley King-Smith about the foundation, its history, this year’s upcoming memorial ceremony, resources provided for families of the fallen and much more.This year’s Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial Ceremony will be held June 4, 2024, at 10 a.m. at the Department of Criminal Justice Training in Richmond, Ky. For information about the Kentucky Law Enforcement Memorial Foundation, click here.Contact KLEMF Board Chair Brian Bowling by emailing brian.bowling@flemingsburgky.org or calling 606-748-2108.ABOUT OUR GUESTBRIAN BOWLING, FLEMINGSBURG POLICE CHIEF AND KLEMF BOARD CHAIRBrian Bowling has served as the Flemingsburg Police Chief since January 2017. Before taking the agency’s leadership role, Bowling retired with the rank of Captain following 23 years with the Kentucky State Police. Bowling holds a bachelor’s degree in police administration from Eastern Kentucky University and a master’s degree in administration of justice from the University of the Cumberlands.The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky. Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov  to share feedback. Music by Digital Juice and StackTraxx. 

In this conclusion of the Bluegrass Beat case study: Seeking Savannah, Richmond Police Sgt. Kelli Fraze discusses her agency’s experience as the high-profile missing person’s case turned toward seeking justice for a murdered young Kentucky mother—Savannah Spurlock.Fraze, who was one of the case’s lead investigators, speaks about steps taken, lessons learned, gaining information from technology and more. Richmond Police Chief Rodney Richardson also talks about the hard work and dedication from his department that led to the case’s resolution, and Savannah’s aunt, Lisa Thoma, talks about the family’s interaction with RPD and what Savannah was like while she was living.…Special Notes from Richmond Sgt. Kelli Fraze on investigations and the Spurlock case.“(Investigations) can be, and will be, a long exhausting process. Every single piece of physical evidence you collect, every detail of the information you have gathered or processed over time is significant, and it's ok if things need to be done a second time. Leave no room for human error. It's all worth it, and it's all necessary. You must challenge your opponent, continue learning and keep trying. Find the people that’s going to make this possible. It is your duty to exhaust all possibilities and find the truth in the stories being told, to speak for the innocent and to seek justice.”I want to note that Sgt. Casey Scott did a phenomenal job with developing this case against David Sparks. We all did what we thought was best or most helpful. But what matters most in the end is pen to paper.  Being capable of taking on all the demands of putting it all together and developing proof beyond a reasonable doubt, especially in this type of case, is exceptional.”Sgt. Fraze also cited the importance that a trusted family/victim’s advocate through the FBI played in developing a relationship with Savannah’s family. The advocate served as Fraze’s negotiator when stressful situations arrived and helped her connect the family to many beneficial resources. Additionally, the RPD sergeant noted that sites, such as Leads Online, provided amazing resources that helped teach her how to write warrants for technology companies and connect her with the company's tech portals to obtain information. The Bluegrass Beat is recorded and produced by the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training’s Public Information Office, a proud member of Team Kentucky. Like what you hear? We appreciate everyone who takes the time to subscribe and rate this podcast.Have a suggestion? Email host Critley King-Smith at critley.kingsmith@ky.gov to share feedback. Music”Dark Fog" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"Plaint" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/