Honoring the Humble Heroes Behind the Headsets
COLUMBIA, Ky. (April 14, 2025) — Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 telecommunicators will be recognized alongside more than 200,000 emergency communication professionals in the country during National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, observed this year from April 13-19.
These dedicated professionals are the first point of contact in emergencies, providing critical assistance to those in need. Their work ensures the safety of both the public and law enforcement officers, often under high-pressure situations.
KSP telecommunicators are responsible for dispatching state police troopers, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation officers and other emergency responders. Their duties include coordinating emergency responses, notifying administrative channels, running vehicle and criminal background checks and providing crucial information to first responders while managing multiple calls and radio traffic. Most importantly, they are the reassuring voice on the other end of the line when someone calls for help.
“During National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, KSP proudly honors the dedicated men and women who stand as the critical link between our Troopers and the communities we serve,” said Post 15 Telecommunications Manager Miranda Luttrell. “Their professionalism, calm under pressure and unwavering commitment are vital to our mission of serving the Commonwealth.”
Across Kentucky, KSP employs approximately 217 telecommunicators at 16 posts. Last year alone, they answered over 1.2 million calls, leading to more than 406,000 requests for assistance. Post 15 Columbia employs 10 telecommunicators who answered 71,688 calls for service, which covers Green, Taylor, Marion, Washington, Casey, Russell, Adair, Clinton, Cumberland, Metcalfe and Monroe counties.
The Kentucky State Police Foundation is honoring the dedication of KSP’s telecommunicators by providing funding that each post can use to show appreciation through meals, treats or small gifts. This initiative ensures that every post has the opportunity to recognize the vital role their radio room staff play in public safety. To learn more about the foundation, click here.
Those interested in joining KSP as a telecommunicator should visit the Kentucky State Personnel Website for more information and current job openings.
(Trooper Jonathan Houk – Kentucky State Police Post 15)