Kenton County Police Department welcomes new assistant chief

Earlier this month, Jim Gilpin returned to the Kenton County Police Department as its assistant chief, bringing with him more than two decades of experience within the field. The Kenton County Fiscal Court celebrated his return Tuesday, Jan. 9, with a swearing-in ceremony during its monthly meeting in Independence.

Gilpin rejoins the Kenton County team just four years after retiring from the same force.

“I am excited to be afforded the opportunity which I can assist in the positive impact and growth of our police officers, the police department, the county and the community which we serve,” Gilpin said.

Gilpin’s career in law enforcement began with the Lexington Police Department in late 1994. He originally joined the KCPD in 1998, where he served for 21 years before retiring as captain in November 2019.

As assistant chief, Gilpin will work directly with Chief of Police Spike Jones on managing the operations of the KCPD.

Five questions with KCPD's assistant chief:

What drew you back into police work?

For some reason, I have always had a deep desire to be an officer. My parents had pictures of me as young as 3 wearing a police "uniform", walking with them in our then local grocery store. They have told me several times that I had always spoke about being a police officer and an Army soldier. I was very blessed to have served several years in the KYARNG, as well as have a very fulfilling law enforcement career, God has always been great! So, when this opportunity came about, I knew how much I missed Kenton County and especially the police department. I wanted to get back "home" and grow the camaraderie that I had before I retired. I also missed the sense of purpose which this agency provides to have a positive impact on our community. I wanted to come back to help further the positive role the police department takes going forward.

What's the most rewarding part of what you do?

The most rewarding part of what we do is helping those who need help. That may sound extremely simplistic; however, we are all in it together and it is the most important thing we do, by far.

What's the biggest misconception about policing?

There are many misconceptions about policing, one being that we are employed to only enforce laws. Officers fulfill many roles in society. As we are a part of the community, most officers only want to do their utmost best to make their communities a better place.

What's been the biggest change since retiring?

The biggest change since retiring seems to be the technology, we are now using it in all aspects of the county. It's hard to believe in just four years it has changed so much.

What's your favorite spot in Kenton County?

I don't know if I have one favorite spot within the county, but I do love to spend a lot of time in the various parks throughout the county. My son Brayden and I have spent countless hours playing on the playgrounds, riding bikes and walking trails. I love this county and all it affords my family and me. We have been so blessed to have the opportunities we do and make so many great friends as we have living in Kenton County, it is truly our HOME!

About Kenton County Police Department

Led by Chief of Police Michael "Spike" Jones , the Kenton County Police Department oversees public safety within the unincorporated portions of Kenton County. The department’s team also provides backup and resources to police departments from the county’s 19 cities.