Kenton County Chief of Police Michael “Spike” Jones will step away from his role, following 11 years of leadership with the Kenton County Police Department.
Jones’ planned departure comes as he is under consideration to serve as assistant city manager for the City of Covington. Prior to joining KCPD, Jones served as Covington’s Chief of Police, making his potential return to the city a natural next chapter in his career and public service.
“We are incredibly grateful for the leadership Spike has brought to the Kenton County Police Department over the past 11 years,” Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann said. “He has helped strengthen this department, build a strong foundation for the future and position KCPD for continued success. We look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role and seeing what he brings back to the City of Covington.”
During his tenure with Kenton County, Jones helped guide the department through a period of growth and modernization, strengthening both its capabilities and its connections with the community. Among his accomplishments:
• Established the KCPD Aviation Section, building one of the premier law enforcement drone teams in the region and expanding the department’s ability to support critical incidents, investigations and public safety operations.
• Built the County’s School Resource Officer program, which has grown to 10 officers serving public and parochial schools throughout Kenton County.
• Launched the Law Enforcement Navigator Program in partnership with the Northern Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy, connecting individuals in crisis with appropriate resources and support while helping reduce repeat calls and improve outcomes for those in need.
Jones’ tenure has been marked by a focus on building a strong, capable department while preparing KCPD to meet the community’s needs well into the future.
Jones’ last day with the department will be Sept. 11. A transition plan is currently being developed internally. More information regarding the department’s leadership will be shared at a later date.
Kenton County