Hardin County sheriff says rape suspect was never hired

Voters in Hardin County, Kentucky, will decide whether to keep Sheriff John Ward in office on November 3, a day before the date a former police officer was supposed to start a new job with his department. The controversy stems from the name of Jeremy Wright appearing on the sheriff's office schedule, a detail that has raised questions about hiring practices days before the election.

Wright previously served with the Leitchfield Police Department. He was arrested in July 2023 on charges of rape and sexual abuse involving a 17-year-old girl. Several people familiar with the Hardin County Sheriff's Office told reporters that Wright was hired and expected to begin work on November 1. This account conflicts with the explanation provided by Ward.

In a video posted to social media, Ward stated that Wright applied for a position and underwent a background investigation but was never formally offered a job. Ward described the appearance of Wright's name on the schedule as an administrative error, noting that the application packet was mistakenly included with paperwork for other new hires. Ward said, 'I have never met him, never spoken with him, and never offered him a job.'

Ward, who is the sole hiring authority for his office, said he understands the public's concern. He added, 'We made an error, and the public deserves a clear explanation of what happened.' The timing of the revelation places the issue directly in the spotlight of the upcoming election cycle.

Ward argued that the situation is being used to question his judgment and integrity. He said, 'To call my integrity into question, the claim being spread that I have hired this individual is incorrect.' He acknowledged expecting scrutiny but said he expected the facts to be represented accurately. Neither the sheriff's office nor the Leitchfield Police Department provided additional comment immediately.

The Leitchfield Police Department did not respond to a request for comment regarding Wright's status. Ward is running for reelection on November 3, the same day the disputed schedule indicated Wright would have started his shift. The sheriff maintained that the facts support his position that no employment offer was made.