LONDON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Following the news that Randall Weddle was impeached from his position as London mayor, the acting mayor Tracy Handley has called for a update on the investigation into the shooting death of Doug Harless.
A document from Handley to KSP Commissioner Colonel Phillip Burnett Jr. explained that she is requesting an update regarding the Kentucky State Police investigation into the officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Harless in December 2024.
"The shooting death of Mr. Harless has created profound and lasting damage to the fabric of our community," the request read. "Certain citizens of Laurel County live in fear and mistrust of law enforcement — emotions that grow stronger with each passing day that the questions from the shooting go unanswered."
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Handley also highlighted the multiple vigils and protests that community members have organized seeking answers. She also explained that families have reported being afraid to call police when they need assistance, "creating a dangerous erosion of the community-police relationship that took decades to build."
Handley specifically requested the following:
- Investigation timeline: Specific, realistic completion date for their investigation;
- Preliminary findings: Any conclusion that can be shared without comprising ongoing work; and
- Document release: It is possible to release the search warrant and other non-sensitive documents.
"The Harless family itself has suffered," Handley continued. "Mr. Harless's daughter, Nikki Lawson, and his surviving family members have been denied basic information about the circumstances surrounding their loved one's death. This family has been forced to bury their patriarch without understanding why he died."
On Wednesday, Kentucky State Police released the following statement, addressing Handley's request.
The Kentucky State Police understands the importance of this case for all parties involved. KSP is committed to conducting a thorough investigation and detectives are meticulously reviewing all aspects of the incident. The investigation remains open at this time, and to protect the integrity of the investigation, specific information will not be released. As soon as the investigation is complete, it will be submitted to the prosecutor for review, at which time additional information may be available to the public.
