Laurel County Sheriff Confirms FBI Probe of London Police Department

Sheriff's office takes over NCIC management duties as state directs

Feb. 4, 2026 at 3:55pm

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Laurel County Sheriff John Root has confirmed that the Federal Bureau of Investigation is actively investigating the London Police Department. While the sheriff's office is not directly involved in the FBI's probe, it has been directed by Kentucky State Police to take over management responsibilities for the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) that were previously shared by the London Police Department and the sheriff's office.

Why it matters

The FBI investigation into the London Police Department raises concerns about potential misconduct or improper practices within the department. The state's decision to have the Laurel County Sheriff's Office take over NCIC management duties suggests a lack of confidence in the London Police Department's ability to handle those responsibilities properly.

The details

Sheriff Root said the change in NCIC management was approved unanimously during a specially called 911 meeting on Tuesday. He emphasized that his agency is not privy to details about the scope or timeline of the federal investigation, and is only focused on fulfilling its new NCIC management role as directed by state officials.

  • The FBI investigation into the London Police Department is currently active.
  • The Laurel County Sheriff's Office took over NCIC management responsibilities on Tuesday.

The players

John Root

Laurel County Sheriff who confirmed the FBI investigation and his office's new NCIC management duties.

Kentucky State Police Audit staff

State officials who directed the Laurel County Sheriff's Office to take over NCIC management responsibilities from the London Police Department.

London Police Department

The police department that is currently under FBI investigation, and has had its NCIC management duties transferred to the Laurel County Sheriff's Office.

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What’s next

The details and timeline of the FBI's investigation into the London Police Department remain unclear, and it is uncertain how long the Laurel County Sheriff's Office will maintain the NCIC management responsibilities.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of police accountability and transparency, as well as the need for effective oversight and management of critical law enforcement systems like the NCIC. The FBI investigation and state-directed changes raise questions about potential misconduct or mismanagement within the London Police Department.