Laurel County leaders call for FBI probe after no charges in deadly police shooting

Grand jury declined to indict officers who killed a 63-year-old man in his home during a botched raid

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Laurel County leaders are requesting the FBI investigate a 2024 police shooting in London, Kentucky, where officers killed a 63-year-old man inside his home. A grand jury declined to indict the officers involved, prompting outrage from local officials who say the public is living in fear and the Harless family deserves transparency.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about police accountability and use of force, especially in incidents where officers may have entered the wrong home. The lack of body camera footage also raises questions about transparency and oversight of law enforcement actions.

The details

Reports indicate London police were executing a search warrant at the wrong home when they shot and killed Doug Harless inside his residence in Lily, Kentucky. A grand jury later declined to indict the officers involved, finding insufficient evidence to bring charges.

  • The shooting incident occurred in 2024.
  • The grand jury decision not to indict was made in early 2026.

The players

David Westerfield

Laurel County Judge-Executive who submitted the request for an FBI investigation.

Doug Harless

A 63-year-old man who was shot and killed by London police officers inside his home in 2024.

London Police

The police department that was involved in the fatal shooting of Doug Harless.

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What they’re saying

“The public is living in fear following the grand jury's finding of insufficient evidence to charge anyone in the case.”

— Laurel County officials

What’s next

Laurel County officials are awaiting a response from the FBI on whether they will investigate the case further.

The takeaway

This incident raises serious questions about police accountability, use of force, and transparency, especially in cases where officers may have entered the wrong home and a citizen was killed as a result.