Kentucky State Police honors Chief James T. Smith during Black History Month
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
FRANKFORT, Ky., (KBSI) — The Kentucky State Police is recognizing Black History Month by honoring the contributions of African Americans in law enforcement.
On Monday, the agency honored the legacy of James T. Smith, a longtime lawman, soldier and servant-leader. Smith began his law enforcement career with Kentucky State Police, graduating from Cadet Class 59 in 1982.
Smith served more than 30 years in law enforcement, including three years as a KSP trooper and 27 years with the Jefferson County Police Department, which later merged into the Louisville Metro Police Department.
He rose to the rank of major and served as commander of the Special Operations Division. In 2012, Smith was appointed chief of police for the Lawton Police Department, a position he held for more than a decade.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Smith served 30 years in the U.S. Army and the Kentucky Army National Guard, retiring as a colonel after multiple deployments worldwide.
Smith died Jan. 22 at the age of 66.
Kentucky State Police said it honors Smith’s lifelong commitment to public service and extends condolences to his family, colleagues and the communities he served.
