FRANKFORT, Ky. — Gov. Andy Beshear announced that 23 young Kentuckians have graduated as the inaugural class of the Kentucky State Police Youth Academy.

What You Need To Know

  • The Kentucky State Police Youth Academy had its first class of 23 graduates 

  • The first-of-its-kind, weeklong program gives aspiring young law enforcers that chance to interact with state police troopers and officers while learning important skills

  • Throughout the program, participants engaged in a variety of activities and instruction, including learning the ethics of law enforcement and team-building exercises

  • Youth academies are a proven strategy for recruiting new officers

According to the governor’s office, the first-of-its-kind, weeklong program gives aspiring young law enforcers that chance to interact with state police troopers and officers while learning leadership skills, developing physical fitness and understanding law enforcement principles.

“We have some of the best and brightest young people in Kentucky, and I am so proud of this group for stepping up and taking the first steps in pursuing a law enforcement career,” said Beshear. “This opportunity from the Kentucky State Police allows us to continue building trust in law enforcement while ensuring the safe future of our commonwealth.”

Throughout the program, participants engaged in a variety of activities and instruction, including learning the core values and ethics fundamental to law enforcement, taking part in team-building exercises and engaging in hands-on demonstrations from the KSP Crime Lab to understand forensic techniques.

“The Kentucky State Police Youth Academy Program offers an unparalleled opportunity for young adults to explore the world of law enforcement,” said KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr.  “We were honored to have provided a platform where those interested in serving the future of the commonwealth could gain invaluable insights and essential skills for a career in public service.”

According to the National COPS Office, youth law enforcement academies play an effective role in recruiting new officers while providing training and educational opportunities.

The inaugural Youth Academy Program was held July 22-26, 2024, at Trooper Island Camp on Dale Hollow Lake. Trooper Island funded the pilot project.

The KSP Youth Academy graduates include: 

Maddy Arnold, Nicholasville
Brandon Atwell, Shepherdsville
Mathis Bailey, Georgetown
Edward Berry, Georgetown
Steven Browing, London
Scriptre Dixon, Hartford
Jonathan Garrett, Dawson Springs
Christopher Glenn, Benton
Jagger Hamm, Richmond
Robert Hawkins, Campbellsville
Benjamin Horn, Owensboro
Logan Issac, Louisa
Caleb Knight, Corbin
Brayden Marcum, Louisa
Tyler Marcum, Corbin
Katherine McMahan, Richmond
Brayden Price, Bedford
Kingston Reams, London
Mason Smith, Owingsville
Ellison Storm, Owensboro
Cannon Thrasher,  Albany
Jacob Warinner, Albany
Jase Warinner, Albany

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