A Barren County constable who illegally participated in a Kentucky State Police pursuit has been indicted.
Joseph Ramey, 29, of Glasgow, was indicted on six counts of first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer, impersonating a peace officer and official misconduct, according to The News-Enterprise.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, July 25 when troopers were notified of a pursuit involving a stolen vehicle that began in Barren County. As the pursuit entered Hardin County, it was discovered that Ramey was participating in the chase while driving a Honda Odyssey van with green and amber emergency lights with a “five-point star” and “Kentucky constable” written on the side of the vehicle, state police said.
During the pursuit, troopers observed Ramey driving his vehicle in a reckless manner and at a high rate of speed, as he nearly hit multiple police cruisers involved in the chase.
During the investigation, it was determined that Ramey did not have law enforcement certification and took office in January 2023.
According to a law passed last year by the Kentucky General Assembly, newly-elected constables are not allowed to exercise police powers until they are certified through professional peace officer training.
As a result of the investigation, a warrant was issued and Ramey was arrested and lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center where he was charged with six counts of first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer, impersonating a peace officer, and official misconduct, along with several misdemeanor traffic violations.
The incident marked the second time Ramey has been arrested since taking office. In January 2023, not long after being sworn-in, he was accused of handcuffing a woman during a domestic violence altercation and holding her against her will.
He was arrested and charged with first-degree unlawful imprisonment and fourth-degree assault.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
