Barnhill Reflects on 23 Years in Law Enforcement

Paducah Police Chief Brandon Barnhill, who will be retiring at the end of the year, spoke to West Kentucky Star Monday about his career in law enforcement and his reasons for deciding to move on.

"It's been a great career. It's a great opportunity. It is truly a calling to go into public service. I fet like it was the right thing for me at that time, and certainly here 23 years later I have no doubt that it was the right thing." Barnhill said.

Barnhill said he's seen a lot since he began his career, but he has always tried to focus on the good things along the way.

"I've seen many things that I cared not to see, or didn't think I would have to see when I first got into the job," Barnhill said. "I try to focus more on the opportunities that have been given to me over the 23 years, and to build relationships and help people. It's not uncommon to still be able to go out in the community and get hugs from those that I've been able to make a positive influence on their lives."

When asked why he is deciding to end his time with the Paducah Police Department now, Barnhill said it feels like now is the time to make a change, and explore some other opportunities.

"I've always been told whenever the timing is right it will feel right, and will essentially smack you in the face. Everything that I've been praying about and talking to the family about is becoming very clear for me. It feels like it is the right time, and there's some opportunities that are out there that I want to explore." He said.

Barnhill added that the uncertainty surrounding the state's ailing pension system did play a factor in his decision to retire.

"I don't know what the future is for the pension issue, but it is an opportunity where I can move out into the system now and lock in or have some security in what I'm retiring at, and those numbers and the things that are afforded to me now that I don't know that would be there in the future." He said.

Barnhill submitted a letter to City Manager Jim Arndt on Oct. 30 saying he will retire on Dec. 31. He has been with the department since 1998.