Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training

The meeting focused primarily on reviewing several Child Fatality and Near Fatality cases, identified by case numbers such as F-046-24-C, NF-019-24-C, and NF-115-24-C. During additional discussion, concerns were raised regarding a pattern of cases not proceeding beyond the law enforcement level in a specific jurisdiction. Furthermore, the Panel noted a lack of prosecution in case NF-135-24-C, which is scheduled for review again in January pending receipt of law enforcement records. A specific request was made to review the file and consult with the diabetes educator regarding case NF-154-24-C due to its deviation from normal facility protocol.

The committee discussed legislative priorities including the pension debate, the budget, and new criminal laws. Concerns were raised about unfunded mandates and potential litigation. The importance of retaining qualified staff was emphasized, as budget cuts could lead to personnel reductions. The discussion also covered the impact of budget reductions on victim advocates and rocket docket funding, and the need for criminal justice reform to be both funded and practical.

The discussion centered on the need for funds and pension reform. It covered topics such as improving voter turnout by modernizing the voting process, including absentee and early voting options. There were questions about separating CERs and clarifying statutes related to the inviolable contract, specifically concerning whether it applies to the Commonwealth or the employer. The committee also discussed tax reform, seeking specific recommendations from various associations. The conversation also touched on the jailers' perspective on state prisoners in county jails and the possibility of increasing per diem rates.

Discussion and adoption of House Bill 74, which aims to assist law enforcement officials in retrieving stolen articles and returning them to their rightful owners. The bill includes considerations for identification of individuals bringing in items and protocols for releasing items to law enforcement. The bill requires retailers to hold second-hand merchandise for 12 days to allow law enforcement officials time to identify and return stolen items. The bill has the support of various organizations, including the Kentucky Sheriffs Association, Kentucky State Police, Kentucky League of Cities, and the Pawn Broker Association.

The meeting included a presentation of the 2025 Annual Report and Recommendations Data, which highlighted year-to-date statistics. Key findings indicated that SFY25 had the highest number of total cases (248), with neglect being the leading categorization, followed by overdose/ingestion. Overdose/ingestion cases reached a five-year high in SFY24, often involving fentanyl and cannabinoids, with children aged 1-4 being at the highest risk. Physical abuse cases have increased significantly over the last five years. The panel discussed potential recommendations concerning physical abuse cases, particularly the need for anger management or domestic violence education within treatment programs. Pending cases were reviewed, leading to recommendations for adding law enforcement issues in several instances, such as failure to investigate or failure to pursue criminal charges. The panel also reviewed several group cases and discussed potential policy considerations regarding in-person meetings for complex cases and concerns surrounding THC gummy ingestion by children.