Attorney General files emergency motion to keep 240 violent offenders in jail

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky Attorney General has filed an emergency motion with the Kentucky Court of Appeals to keep more than 240 convicted, violent offenders behind bars.

In February, the Franklin County Circuit Court invalidated a portion of the Safer Kentucky Act that broadens the definition of violent offender that includes reckless homicide, attempted murder, strangulations, carjacking and other crimes. The Franklin Circuit Court denied the attorney general’s request to keep its order from going into effect while litigation continues.

If the current order stands, then over 240 violent offenders could be set for release by the Kentucky Parole Board.

 “Unless the Court of Appeals steps in, more violent criminals could soon be back in your neighborhood,” said Attorney General Coleman.

The Safer Kentucky Act was passed in 2024. Before the Safer Kentucky Act was passed, the crimes like reckless homicide, strangulation and a few others were up for parole after inmates served 20% of their sentence. After passing, those violent criminals must serves at least 85% of their sentence.