(WAVE/WKYT) – Kentucky State Police trooper Tyler Walters, 25, was recognized at last month’s KSP annual awards ceremony and is now facing charges of driving under the influence.
According to court records, Walters was arrested on Friday, Aug. 7, in Hardin County.
According to Hardin District Court records, Walters is charged with:
- Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol (0.08 or above), first offense (recorded blood alcohol level of 0.083).
- Possession of an open alcohol beverage container in a motor vehicle.
Walters was initially released on a pre-arraignment bond, but on Aug. 10, a Hardin County District Judge issued an active bench warrant.
The bench warrant indicates that Walters was “inadvertently released” on the pre-arraignment bond when a cash bond was required, as he has an already pending DUI case.
Walters’ arraignment is scheduled for Aug. 31.
Walters was a two-year veteran of the agency, and among 84 troopers honored at the KSP annual Sworn Awards Ceremony held in Lexington on July 24.
A KSP spokesperson responded to WAVE’s request for comment, saying, “Transparency and accountability are paramount to maintaining the public’s trust. KSP expects personnel to conduct themselves with the highest standards of professionalism – both on and off duty – while upholding the law at all times.”
They continued by adding that Walters was in a “personal vehicle and was not acting in any official capacity” when he was arrested.
Walters has been suspended pending the outcome of KSP’s internal affairs investigation, as confirmed by the organization.