Sheriff says officer charged with rape was never hired

Hardin County Sheriff John Ward stated Friday that Jeremy Wright, a former police officer charged with rape in 2023, was never employed by his department. This assertion contradicts accounts from several people familiar with the office who said Wright was hired and scheduled to begin work on Nov. 1.

Wright was arrested in July 2023 on charges of rape and sexual abuse involving a 17-year-old girl while serving with the Leitchfield Police Department. Ward addressed the confusion in a video posted to social media, explaining that Wright applied for a position and completed a background investigation but was not offered the job.

"I have never met him, never spoken with him, and never offered him a job," Ward said. "I am the only hiring authority at this office."

The sheriff attributed the presence of Wright's name to an administrative error. He said the former officer's application packet was mistakenly included with paperwork for other new hires, causing his name to appear on the department schedule. Ward acknowledged that the error raised questions, stating, "We made an error, and the public deserves a clear explanation of what happened."

The dispute emerged three days before the Nov. 3 election, in which Ward is seeking reelection. Ward said he believes the situation is being used to question his judgment, integrity, and character before voters head to the polls. He maintained that the claim he hired Wright is incorrect and that he expects the facts to be represented accurately.

Ward was not in the office when reporters called for additional comment. The Leitchfield Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.