Kentucky State Police Charges Lincoln County Official

STANFORD, Ky. (March 13, 2026) – The Kentucky State Police Drug Enforcement Special Investigations Branch launched an investigation into Lincoln County Deputy Ron Luster in January 2026 after receiving a misconduct tip.

On Feb. 3, 2026, KSP detectives notified Lincoln County Sheriff Shawn Hines of the allegations. The Sheriff fully cooperated and assisted with the investigation, immediately suspending Mr. Luster.  On March 13, 2026, Mr. Luster was indicted by the Lincoln County Grand Jury on charges of Tampering with Physical Evidence, Abuse of Public Trust, and Official Misconduct 1st.  Mr. Luster was arrested and lodged at the Pulaski County Detention Center.  

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing. Until the judicial process is complete, premature disclosure of additional information could reveal investigatory leads and potentially hinder future investigative steps. Additionally, releasing further details could pose a significant risk of influencing potential jurors by shaping opinions before all relevant evidence is presented in court.

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