Warren County sheriff candidate terminated from employment with sheriff’s office
WARREN COUNTY, Ky. – Additional details are now available regarding a decision on the employment status of a current Warren County sheriff candidate.
Sheriff candidate Mark Heyungs announced his campaign for Warren County sheriff on Dec. 4.
Three days later, he was suspended without pay from the Warren County Sheriff’s Office.
His termination hearing began Feb. 11 at the Warren County Justice Center. Department leadership testified about several 2025 incidents they say raised concerns about his performance and judgment — including a traffic stop involving a seized cellphone, a yard sale encounter that drew hundreds of complaints and internal disagreements over enforcement decisions.
Warren County attorney Amy Chandler recommended termination, calling it a pattern of concern. Heyungs and his attorney argued his actions were lawful and within his authority.
The final decision rested with Hightower, who, under Kentucky law, is the hearing officer.
“Tuesday, Feb. 24, Hightower announced he considered all the evidence, which he found to be substantial, including testimony and exhibits, finding Heyungs guilty of the eight charges presented,” according to court documents obtained by News 40.
According to the court documents, Heyungs is now terminated.
Heyungs has 30 days to appeal the decision in Warren County Circuit Court, court documents state.
News 40 has reached out to Heyungs, who stated he had not been notified of the hearing decision as of Tuesday night.
Heyungs posted a video response to his termination on social media Wednesday afternoon, which can be located below.
