London Launches Probe Into Alleged Misuse of FBI Database

City council demands records of sensitive NCIC queries involving officials and residents who sued the mayor

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The London City Council has launched an independent investigation into the police department's lost access to the FBI's National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. The council is demanding records of NCIC queries from October 2024 that involve a list of names, including council members and residents who have filed lawsuits against the mayor and city. The council also seeks sworn testimony from 10 city employees about any improper use of the NCIC system and details on the transfer of the system to the sheriff's office.

Why it matters

The NCIC database contains highly sensitive information, and there are strict federal guidelines for its use. The investigation raises concerns about potential misuse of this sensitive law enforcement tool and the transparency of the city government's actions.

The details

The resolution approving the investigation was passed unanimously by the city council during a special-called meeting on February 11, 2026. This came a week after the local sheriff revealed that the FBI had revoked the London Police Department's access to the NCIC system. The council is demanding records of NCIC queries from October 2024 that involve a list of names, including council members and several London residents who have filed lawsuits against the mayor and city. The council also seeks sworn testimony from 10 city employees about any improper use of the NCIC system and details on the transfer of the system to the sheriff's office.

  • The London City Council passed the resolution approving the investigation on February 11, 2026.
  • The FBI revoked the London Police Department's access to the NCIC system one week prior, on February 4, 2026.

The players

London City Council

The governing body of the city of London, Kentucky, which has launched an independent investigation into the police department's use of the FBI's NCIC database.

Sheriff John Root

The sheriff of London, Kentucky, who revealed that the FBI had revoked the London Police Department's access to the NCIC system.

Larry Bryson

The city attorney of London, Kentucky, who raised concerns about the council's resolution and was directed to file a complaint with the attorney general.

Emily Campbell

An attorney with Rowady Hendricks Law who voiced concerns about the council voting on a resolution that had only been released the night before.

Justin Young

A London city council member who shared a copy of the resolution on social media.

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What they’re saying

“If you're not trying to hide something, why not publish this last night? Why not let us see what's going on? The reason that we don't do that here, the reason that the city council and their attorneys specifically aren't doing this is because what's happening, they don't want the public to have a jump on. They don't want us to have the information beforehand because we might be able to tell them that it's not right.”

— Emily Campbell, Attorney, Rowady Hendricks Law (fox56news.com)

What’s next

Sworn statements and documents from the 10 city employees are due at 5 p.m. on February 23, 2026.

The takeaway

This investigation highlights concerns about potential misuse of sensitive law enforcement tools and the need for transparency in local government actions, especially when they involve lawsuits against city officials.