Kentucky Governor says 1-75 shooter still not found
KENTUCKY(KBSI) – According to the Governor and KSP Commissioner Phillip Burnett Jr., law enforcement plans to reallocate boots-on-the-ground resources out of Daniel Boone National Forest, of which 28,000 acres have been searched, and into the community, focusing on citizen safety.
The Laurel County Sheriff’s Office will lead the investigation of the shooting incident, while KSP will continue to lead search efforts through aircraft as well as cameras that have been placed throughout the forest.
“In the beginning, the best way to find the suspect was in the forest. As that has become less likely over the past several days, our best plan to provide safety now is to augment law enforcement in this community to where our people are,” Gov. Beshear said. “Beginning this afternoon, we will begin transitioning state and local law enforcement and agencies from a manhunt to a larger presence in the community. We stand united in this approach and our commitment to protect people of this region.”
Kentucky Commissioner Burnett says they will increase security at local schools, push patrol into roadways, increase security at bus stops and sport events.
“We feel the best way to prioritize community safety is to use technology and aircraft while transitioning the bulk of our state and local law enforcement resources out of the forest and into our communities” says Commissioner Burnett.
KSP continues to encourage anyone with information on the whereabouts of Couch – described as being 5-foot-10 and weighing 154 pounds and who is considered armed and dangerous – to call any of the following law enforcement agencies. Any and all information will be investigated.
- KSP Post 11 London: 606-878-6622
- Crime Stoppers: 606-682-1013
- County Communication: 606-878-7000
- Laurel County Sheriff’s Office: 606-864-6600
The suspect should not be approached.
Laurel County Crime Stoppers is offering a $15,000 reward for information leading to Couch’s arrest. Anonymous donors have provided additional funds for a total reward of $35,000.
