Kentucky State Police
The Kentucky State Police serves as the statewide law enforcement agency, responsible for enforcing state laws, protecting life and property, and providing support to local police departments. They handle highway patrol and traffic enforcement, criminal investigations, emergency response, and specialized services such as drug enforcement, forensics, and tactical operations.
About the Division
The Kentucky State Police are tasked with maintaining public safety across the state by enforcing laws, patrolling roadways, and responding to emergencies. They investigate serious crimes, assist local agencies when needed, and provide specialized units and resources to ensure effective statewide law enforcement.
Membership Requirements
- No community or department disciplinary action within the last 90 days
- Complete the state police application process & interview
Membership Spots Left: 30
16
Active Members
2
Stations
0
Stat 2
0
Hours Patrolled
Division Information Hub
KENTUCKY STATE POLICE
APPLY NOW
STEP 1: Submit a membership application
STEP 2: Your application will be reviewed
STEP 3: Background Investigation
STEP 4: COD Onboarding
STEP 5: COD Training & Examination
STEP 6: Review & Evaluation
STEP 7: Join the State Police & complete the required training(s).
Position Information
- Patrol assigned highways and rural roadways to enforce state and federal traffic laws.
- Respond to vehicle crashes, natural disasters, and other crises, rendering aid as necessary.
- Conduct criminal investigations, collect and preserve evidence, and apprehend offenders.
- Testify in court and prepare detailed written reports on investigations and enforcement actions.
- Provide assistance and support to motorists and citizens in need.
- Engage with the community to promote public trust, education, and safety initiatives.
- Collaborate with local, state, and federal agencies on joint operations.
- Maintain physical fitness, professional conduct, and adherence to the KSP Policy and Procedure.
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Applicants shall be disqualified from further participation in the selection process or removed from KSP if it is determined that:
- An applicant does not meet any one (1) of the qualifications for appointment as an officer.
- An applicant has made a false statement of a material fact on the application or in response to any questions or requests for information during the selection process.
- An applicant has cheated during the course of any examination required during the selection process, or has attempted to gain an advantage over other applicants by any dishonest or intentionally misleading act or omission.
- The applicant has failed to comply with any instructions from the agency regarding the selection process.
- An applicant has been dismissed for cause from any public agency, or has resigned while charges of misconduct were pending.
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Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) — Responsible for identifying, investigating, and disrupting illegal narcotics activity through proactive enforcement, intelligence gathering, and coordinated operations.
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Criminal Investigations Division (CID) — Handles follow-up investigations, major crimes, and complex cases, providing investigative expertise and case management support within the district.
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Commercial Vehicle Enforcement (CVE) — Ensures compliance with commercial motor vehicle laws and safety regulations through inspections, enforcement actions, and roadway safety initiatives.
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Canine Unit (K-9) — Provides specialized detection, tracking, and search capabilities in support of patrol, investigations, and high-risk operations.
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Air Support Unit — Delivers aerial support for pursuits, searches, surveillance operations, and situational awareness during critical incidents.
Meet the Command Staff
Dan C.
State Colonel
Colonel Dan Cunningham, serving as the State Police Colonel leads the state police with a focus on operational excellence, disciplined leadership, and the protection of the public.
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