Kentucky State Police Announces First Civilian to Serve as The Agency’s Spokesperson

The previous public affairs commander, Captain Howard “Paul” Blanton, who served in this role since Oct. 2021, announced his retirement after 20 years of service to the commonwealth with the Kentucky State Police.

“Our agency has made great progress in elevating our public communications and ensuring transparency,” Burnett said. “We have the best public affairs branch in the nation and with Ms. Bray and Sgt. Sudduth at the helm I have total faith that KSP will continue to be on the forefront and provide efficient communications to keep Kentuckians safe.”

Sherry Bray is a 22-year veteran of the agency. She has served in various roles within the public affairs branch while spearheading the agency’s social media accounts, which have been nationally recognized. 

“I’m honored and humbled to serve in this role and look forward to conveying our mission while providing vital public safety information to the citizens we serve,” said Bray. “It’s an opportunity to share the important work our troopers, officers and civilian staff perform every day while building positive relationships with media partners.”

Sgt. Matt Sudduth is a 10-year veteran of the agency. His previous assignments include Post 5 Campbellsburg where he served as a Trooper, including a year as the post-level public affairs officer. In December 2020, he was assigned to the Public Affairs Branch at KSP Headquarters in Frankfort. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in September of 2022. 

“It’s a blessing to serve the commonwealth and the Kentucky State Police as the Public Affairs Branch Commander,” Sgt. Sudduth said. “I am dedicated to ensuring KSP is represented with professionalism and dignity, holding myself and our branch to the highest standard. Kentucky is my home, and I want nothing more than to make it a better place for my family and yours.”