A former deputy with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has been dismissed from his position and indicted following an investigation into alleged misconduct.
Authorities said Ron Luster, 54, of Hustonville, Kentucky, was indicted Friday by a grand jury in Lincoln County, Kentucky.
Charges filed by grand jury
According to court records, Luster faces several charges, including first-degree official misconduct, abuse of public trust involving less than $10,000, and tampering with physical evidence.
Investigators with the Kentucky State Police said the agency’s Drug Enforcement Special Investigations Branch launched the case after receiving a tip in January regarding possible misconduct.
Deputy suspended after allegations surfaced
State police notified Shawn Hines, sheriff of Lincoln County, about the allegations on Feb. 3. Officials said Luster was immediately suspended from duty once the sheriff was informed.
Authorities said the sheriff’s office cooperated fully with the investigation.
Employment terminated following investigation
Luster’s employment was officially terminated Friday after the sheriff’s office completed an administrative review alongside the criminal investigation.
Sheriff Hines said the internal review found four violations of department policies and procedures, which led to the decision to dismiss the deputy.
Investigation remains ongoing
Officials have not released specific details about the alleged misconduct, citing the ongoing investigation.
State police said releasing additional information at this stage could compromise investigative leads and potentially affect the judicial process.
Luster was taken to the Pulaski County Detention Center and is being held on a $25,000 bond, according to court records.