National Police Week — May 10-16

Hancock County law enforcement officers put their lives on the line each day in service to their community, a commitment shared by the families who support them. During National Police Week, May 10-16, their work and sacrifice are recognized, and their continued dedication to public safety is honored.

As Hancock County observes National Police Week, longtime Sheriff Dale Bozarth is preparing to close out a decades-long career in law enforcement. He has served since the 1980s and will retire at the end of his current term. In 2022, he received the Kentucky Sheriffs’ Association Life Saving Award for assisting a driver who was experiencing a heart attack.

Bozarth and his deputies provide round-the-clock service to county residents. The department includes Deputy Jeff Hendrick, Deputy Aaron Emmick, Deputy Butch Garst and Deputy Cody Axton, who also serves as K-9 handler with Max.

Kari Jones has served as deputized chief office executive since 2002. Jailer Roger Estes has held his position since 2007, assisted by Deputy Jailers Jerry Priest and Hawesville Police Chief B.J. Burton. Court security officers include Tom Myers, Terry Hargis, Wes Gillispie and Charlie Shadwick.

Rural departments like Hancock County’s operate with limited staff and resources while covering large areas of farmland and backroads. Deputies respond to a wide range of calls, from thefts to drug investigations, while maintaining consistent coverage across the county.

Hawesville Police Chief B.J. Burton, a former county deputy, continues working alongside fellow officers to serve the city. In Lewisport, Chief Greg Linn and Officer Nick Jarboe handle everything from routine calls to life-threatening emergencies; Jarboe received a Life Saving Award last year for his quick response in a critical situation.

School Resource Officers (SROs) serve on each Hancock County campus to help protect students and staff. Current SROs include John Garner at Hancock County Middle and High School, Russ Day at South Hancock Elementary and John Marvel at North Hancock Elementary.

Beyond the local level, National Police Week includes several events nationwide that pay tribute to fallen officers and their families.

The 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil will be held Wednesday on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Each year, the names of officers killed in the line of duty are added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and read aloud during the ceremony. Honor Guard members stand in formation as surviving family members make their way to the vigil.

Thursday’s Police Vehicle Display and “Shine” event honors fallen officers with a showcase of vintage and modern law enforcement vehicles at the U.S. Capitol Reflection Pool. Many are driven in from across the country and restored to reflect those once used in service.

Hancock County’s law enforcement officers continue to serve with dedication and professionalism, working each day to keep their community safe. They face long hours, unpredictable situations and time away from family. Strong community support remains essential to local departments.

National Police Week offers a moment to recognize the challenges, demands and responsibility behind the badge, both here at home and across the country.