Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy Fired and Indicted Following Misconduct Investigation

Lincoln County Deputy Ron Luster has been fired and faces felony charges, including tampering with evidence, following a Kentucky State Police probe.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 14, 2026, 7:28 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from the Lexington Herald-Leader and the Kentucky State Police.

Investigation and Immediate Suspension

The investigation into Ron Luster began in January 2026 after the Kentucky State Police (KSP) Drug Enforcement Special Investigations Branch received a tip regarding his conduct. On February 3, KSP officials briefed Lincoln County Sheriff Shawn Hines on the allegations, leading to Luster's immediate suspension. Sheriff Hines has reportedly cooperated fully with state investigators throughout the process.

Indictment and Termination

Following a dual administrative and criminal investigation, a Lincoln County grand jury returned an indictment against Luster on Friday. He faces charges of:

First-degree official misconduct

Abuse of public trust (less than $10,000)