Meet Stephen Harmon: Your Proven Leader for Warren County Jailer

A Career Dedicated to Public Safety: Stephen's career in law enforcement began early, starting as a dispatcher for the Warren County Sheriff's Office after graduating from Greenwood High School in 2000. He quickly advanced through the ranks, serving as a supervisor and manager, and receiving distinguished service awards in 2011 and 2015 for his work in dispatch, policy development, professional standards, and grant management.

His extensive training includes attending Western Kentucky University and receiving an associate degree in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, along with numerous leadership certifications from the Department of Criminal Justice training.

Transforming the Warren County Jail: In April 2017, Stephen Harmon was appointed Warren County Jailer, a position he has since been elected to. Under his Proven Leadership, the Warren County Regional Jail has undergone a transformative period, marked by a commitment to innovation, efficiency, and human-centered approaches.

Key Achievements During His Tenure as Jailer:

 

• Modernizing Operations & Enhancing Safety:

  • Implemented a new jail management system, funded by capital improvements from contract negotiations.

  • Upgraded security infrastructure with advanced camera systems, access control, and a state-of-the-art body scanner, and medical sensors in isolation cells to monitor the medically fragile and high risk.

  • Introduced TruNarc and trace evidence devices to combat contraband within the facility and assist in drug investigations.

  • Increased law enforcement protective equipment for deputies and implemented internal investigations for crimes within the facility, reducing reliance on outside agencies.

  • Strategic placement of AEDs and deployment of emergency go-bags for rapid response to medical emergencies.

  • Successfully navigated the COVID-19 pandemic with robust sanitization, prevention efforts, and vaccine clinics.

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• Pioneering Rehabilitation & Re-Entry Programs:

  • Created the first Inmate ID Program in a county jail in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, providing crucial identification for re-entry.

  • Established a Re-Entry Services Division with evidence-based programs to prepare inmates for successful integration into society.

  • Developed the first pre-release class in the Commonwealth that is now deployed all around the state. Launched the "FREED" (Felon Re-Entry Equal Employment Directive) Program, enabling eligible state inmates to work while serving their sentences.

  • Implemented a program to help inmates obtain birth certificates, social security cards, and IDs vital for re-entry.

  • Introduced a baptism program for inmates desiring spiritual growth.

  • Provided a virtual court system during the pandemic, ensuring inmates' access to justice, and expanded home incarceration program resources.

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• Fiscal Responsibility & Staff Development:

  • Diligently worked with the fiscal court to secure well-deserved pay increases for deputies and increased training above state minimum requirements.

  • Renegotiated contracts, leading to signing bonuses and capital improvement grants for jail upgrades.

  • Implemented a fleet lease program for safe staff and inmate transportation.

  • Upgraded kitchen facilities and expanded commissary space for efficiency and inmate options.

 

Community Service & Engagement: Beyond his role as Jailer, Stephen Harmon is deeply involved in serving the Warren County community and statewide initiatives. He currently serves on the Kentucky Jailers Association Board, is a board member and past Chairman of the South Central Kentucky Crime Stoppers and is a member and trustee of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 13. He also contributes to the Southern Kentucky Reentry Council, serves on a board at Kentucky Association of Counties, and remains a faithful volunteer for Toys for Tots. His past roles include leadership positions with Christ United Methodist Church, Warren County Emergency Management Agency, and previously served on the ethics advisory board for the Warren County Parks and Recreation.

With over 25 years of law enforcement experience and a proven track record of achievement, Stephen Harmon is committed to continuing his work as Warren County Jailer. He humbly asks for your vote and support to continue his mission of public safety and effective, compassionate correctional management.