REPORT NO. 1
Our First Day as the Fayette
Commonwealth's Attorney's Interns

By Sara Jennings

An opportunity of a lifetime is hard to pass up. As I walked up to the front of the door to the Fayette County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, I was not sure of what to expect. Many thoughts raced through my head. What am I going to be doing for this summer? Are we just doing paper work? What is this internship about? How many interns are going to be there? I have to admit, I was extremely nervous as I walked through the door.

When we arrived at the office, we were directed back to the conference room where the Monday morning staff meeting was being held. Several attorneys were in the room, and we were met with their smiling faces. The prosecutors were going over the new cases that they had received. After the meeting we met Elizabeth Davis who is the internship coordinator and an Assistant Commonwealth Attorney. She informed us that she had planned a regular orientation for the day, however, plans had been changed. We learned that instead of a traditional orientation we were going to sit in on a murder trial. I thought to myself a murder trial on the first day, this is going to be an interesting summer!

We proceeded to introduce ourselves to each other as we walked to the courthouse. We then arrived at the Fayette County Courthouse and walked into the courtroom. We sat in the back as the jurors were announced. The jurors were instructed to not talk to anyone about the case or even to each other. After the jurors were instructed, a short recess was taken. When the trial reconvened, both sides gave their opening statements and the Commonwealth went first. We learned that using a PowerPoint presentation in your opening statement is extremely effective. The images and descriptions used really gave the jurors and the public an overall insight into the prosecution’s case. The Defense gave their opening statement which was quick and to the point.

The defendant, Darryl Burrell

After the opening statements, the Commonwealth began to present their side of the case. Their first witness was called to the stand and the trial was set into action. Patrol Officers, who were dispatched to the scene, were called in to give details of the incident. According to police, Darryl Burrell allegedly entered the Dairy Mart with a sawed-off shotgun in order to rob the store. Ashley Cason, the victim, was working as a clerk that day. Mr. Burrell used the weapon to rob the store. The two other victims were instructed to get down on the ground and give Mr. Burrell their wallets. Ms. Cason gave the defendant the money from both registers in the Dairy Mart. After this the he instructed all three to go back into a cooler. The defendant then fatally shot Ashley Cason in the back. As the two victims ran into another room, one of the shotgun pellets grazed the stomach of one of the victims. The defendant left the store after this.

One important witness was John Arnold. Mr. Arnold specializes in the equipment the store used for surveillance. The image equipment captures audio and video. Mr. Arnold then proceeded to play the video and the audio while an eye-witness took the stand. The victim’s family was very emotional during the audio because the shot and the scream during Ashley Cason’s death could be heard. During this audio, Ms. Cason’s brother had an emotional outburst and was forced to leave the courtroom. During the mid-afternoon break all of the interns walked back to the office. We had a quick orientation of what the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office really does and how a case reaches them. We talked about the logistics of the internship and introduced ourselves. As we walked out of the office on our first day we continued to discuss the excitement of the trial.

The trial continued until the end of our first week at the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. At the end of the third day the Commonwealth closed their case. The Defense oddly declined to introduce any evidence or witnesses. Both sides then proceeded to give their closing statements. The jury was given the case to deliberate at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. After seven hours of deliberation, Darryl Burrell was convicted of wanton murder, three counts of robbery, two counts of attempted murder and one count of tampering with physical evidence.

On Thursday, the sentencing phase of the trial began. The defense attempted to bring in several of Mr. Burrell’s family members to show his personality and give the jury insight into his life. The Commonwealth explained that the death penalty was the appropriate punishment for Mr. Burrell. After deliberation the jury recommended life in prison without the possibility of parole.

After a murder trial and the excitement of our first week as interns we have begun to bond. Our intern group is a wonderful mixture of law students and undergraduates from different areas and backgrounds, but we all have one thing in common: we are ready to learn about criminal law. I can tell that this summer is going to be a summer that will change all of us in several ways. This will be an internship where we will not only learn a lot about law, but a lot about ourselves.

REPORT NO. 2
Lexington Bureau of Investigation Meeting

By Megan Thompson

N.Y.P.D. Blue, Cold Case, C.S.I., Law & Order- what do all of these shows have in common? They all portray detectives as men who walk around with guns at their hip. Like these television shows, the detectives of the Lexington Police Department fit the description of the stereotypical detective portrayed on television. Contrary to what is portrayed on television, real-life detectives play a vital role in our criminal justice system. Detectives work as a liaison between the Police Department and the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and serve as the go-to people for important evidence in a criminal trial.

Overall, this meeting served as a reminder for the Detective Bureau and the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office to have better communication during investigation processes. It also served to stress that investigators and patrol officers alike to make sure all of their t’s are crossed and their i’s dotted when conducting an investigation that will go to trial. Evidence is the most important component of a trial and it needs to be handled and collected with utmost care!

REPORT NO. 3
Riding Along with the Lexington Police Department

By Todd Greer

The Police Ride-Along assignment was an eye-opening experience for the interns that allowed us a first-hand look at the initial stage of the criminal justice process: Arrest. At 4:00 pm on Friday, we arrived at our respective police stations for the Roll-Call meeting. At the Roll-Call meeting, we met the police officers to whom we were assigned and the police officers were informed about the recent criminal activity in the district. At the close of the roll-call meeting, we head out on patrol. Because each intern’s experiences on the police ride-along were unique, we feel it is best to let the interns speak for themselves as to what they saw on patrol.

Todd Greer

Every intern thoroughly enjoyed their experience on the Police Ride-along. It was an excellent opportunity to witness the first stage of the criminal justice process and to see the terrible effect that criminals have on their victims and the community. The Lexington Police Force has a tremendously difficult job of protecting the community and every intern was impressed with the dedication with which the police go about performing that duty.

REPORT NO. 4
The Detention Center Tour

By Emily Wessel

Off of Old Frankfort Pike in Lexington, Kentucky, sits the Fayette County Department of Corrections. At first glance, one might mistake the compound for a horse farm – the five year-old building is freshly painted, with a refined, countryside style more often associated with a clubhouse than a jail.

But this is jail. When we entered the facility, the sunny facade abruptly gave way to a sterile, gray interior. We were issued name tags in exchange for our IDs, and watched as a couple of female prisoners completed their custodial duties around the lobby. Don Leach, Assistant Director of the Division of Community Corrections, arrived, greeted us with a big smile. Leach has a number of goals: to incarcerate offenders, protect the  community, reduce recidivism, and keep costs down (the current cost of incarceration is $55 per person, per day). All the while, Leach must stay within the bounds of the 8^th and 14^th Amendments, and he must keep the 1,170 prisoners safe from each other, and themselves. Leach cites Maslow’s Heirarchy of Needs when he explains the reasoning behind television access, weekend brunches, and a commissary available for prisoners to purchase their favorite snacks (Note: Leach tells us that the favorite shows include "America’s Most Wanted," "Jerry Springer," and "Judge Judy.") Engaging people in constructive activities, Leach says, will result in the behavior control so necessary in a housing unit where prisoners outnumber officers 80:1.

Emily with medical records clerk at the Detention Center Medical Facility

Our first stop was the Bureau of Master Control. A dark room full of television monitors, Leach proudly calls this staff his last line of defense. The people who work in Master Control must be acutely aware of all activities occurring throughout the 470,000 square foot compound. They are able to do so through a complex web of monitors, speakers, alarms, and controls. Their cameras’ "zoom" functions are so intense that a staff member can read what an offender is writing. Inside the compound, a door will not open without the approval of Master Control. Outside the compound, a bus going to or from another prison, court, or a work release program will not leave or return without Master Control’s consent.

Blake, Sarah, Megan, and Chris waiting in the jail drunk tank

As we walked from Master Control to the Intake Area, we passed more prisoners working. Leach says that Inmate Labor is restricted to only the least dangerous, and that such programs give prisoners discipline. We saw one prisoner participating in the Inmate Watcher Program, where he is paid $5.00 a day to observe a fellow inmate who has been identified as a high suicide risk. We watched as he paced the hallway, back and forth, intently staring into the housing unit.

The Intake Area deals with every person, from the drunk fraternity member to the murder suspect. Since 40% of those arrested will be released following the intake process, the department is focused on efficiency. Leach demonstrates the flow pattern of Intake, where those arrested move from staff member to staff member in a circuit-like fashion. From seat belts on chairs to drains in the floor, the room is designed to accommodate the highly intoxicated, the dangerously violent, and the unruly. We were introduced to the "lazy boy lounge chairs," which are not recliners, but rather, uncomfortably angled chairs equipped with straps for the arms and legs. "The hood" is another device, placed over the head of the "spitters." The "Amnesty Box" looks like a mailbox, but gives the arrested one last chance to deposit any illegal items without legal recourse. A laser finger print machine stands ready to scan come this evening’s influx. A poster of a skeletal looking meth 

Alex couldn't behave herself so into the jail's version of a La-Z-Boy

addict serves as a not-so-subtle reminder of the destructive force of drugs. As the link between substance abuse and crime remains strong, the point is anything but moot.

At the conclusion of the tour, we walked through a few housing units, stopping to meet a prisoner who gave us some insight into the meaning of various tattoos (Note: stay away from people with tear drops – each tear drop represents a murder). Another prisoner greeted Ray with a "Hi, Mr. Larson, how you doing?" A female prisoner asked Leach for cable television, almost in a shy way, and answered his denial with a smile and a shrug. It was astounding to realize that the majority of these prisoners greatly respect Leach and the police officers who guard them. Indeed, they respect the prosecutors who make sure they pay for their crimes. This respect seems to stem from being held accountable for their actions. Perhaps the criminal justice system’s recognition of them as human beings, able to make their own decisions of their own free will, is, in a strange way, self-affirming. As we exited through the front doors, a sense of justice filled the air.

REPORT NO. 5
Victim Assistance Network

By Michelle Peyton

The Victims Assistance Network met for the second time on June 6. The Network consists of representatives from agencies who provide services to victims of crime. The meeting was attended by several special guests, who were all victims of some type of crime. The victims were asked to tell about the crime they endured and how victim services could be improved. The perspective of actual crime victims is very helpful and beneficial to those who provide services to victims of crime.
 

Connie Kotzbauer, mother of murder victim

Connie Kotzbauer was one of the guests in attendance. Connie is a survivor of a homicide victim. Connie’s daughter was raped and murdered in Illinois in 1999. Her daughter was at a Wal-mart in Illinois buying diapers for her young baby when she was kidnapped and later raped and murdered. Connie says that in Illinois at the time of the trial the state had no one to inform her of the case, to explain different proceedings or portions of the case, or to support her and attend the trial with her. At the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office in Lexington, KY we are fortunate to have 4 victim advocates, which help victims throughout the criminal justice system. Many times the criminal justice system can become very confusing and for many victims and survivors of victims going through the process alone can easily become too much for them to bear.

Connie says after the three and a half year process of the criminal justice system she felt she was left out in the cold. She needed something to hold on to and found very little support for homicide victims. She says the violence of what happened to her daughter runs through her mind all the time. Connie wanted to talk with the family of the defendant to help her to heal. In order to alleviate some of the pain and to heal she started to help others. Connie sends out remembrance cards to families who have had loved ones murdered. She says that sending the remembrance cards is actually healing for her and it enables the memory of her daughter to remain alive.

Another victim of crime was a guest of Elieen O’ Malley with the Center for Women, Children, and Families. The crime of sexual abuse happened when the victim was only 8 years old. During the prime of the victim’s childhood she was sexually abused by a family member and was told the abuse was her fault. The victim is now in her fifties and she says still to this day the crime is unfortunately a part of her life. The statistics regarding sexual abuse cases eventually become only numbers, however having a victim of child sexual abuse sitting before you telling her very personal story from her heart really gets your attention. Her suggestion for helping victims is to educate the faith community on sexual abuse.

The next victim of crime was assaulted at Kroger’s at 8:00 in the morning while going in for work. She stepped out of her car parked in the Kroger’s parking lot and a man started swinging a hammer at her. Luckily, there were people around at the time of the incident and they ran to help her. The man was convicted of first degree assault, and he must serve 20 years before he is eligible for parole. Robin Gridley, a victim advocate at the Commonwealth’s Attorney Office helped the victim through the criminal justice process. Robin sat through the entire trial with the victim. The victim said she doesn’t know what she would have done if it had not been for the victim advocate.

The other two victims were victims of identity theft and burglary. The victim of identity theft had a suggestion of making a brochure of important phone numbers that would be needed by the victim to call and cancel credit cards and checking accounts. All 5 victims had a very different story to tell, however they were all equally important. The personal stories of the victims all had 1 thing in common and that is the fact that the tragedy of the crime they went through has and will continue to forever change their life in someway. Victims of crime cross all barriers of socioeconomic class, age, gender, and race. Any of our loved ones or ourselves could become a victim of crime at anytime, which should encourage us to support victims. Speaking with actual victims is very important in continuing to provide and even improve imperative services to victims.

REPORT NO. 6
Green Acres Neighborhood Association

By Emily Wessel

Tonight, Ray Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Carolyn Miller, and I visited the Green Acres Neighborhood Association. Our attendance is part of our Community Prosecution program, an effort to work with Fayette County’s neighborhoods in order to understand the concerns of each neighborhood. About forty concerned neighbors came to the community’s park to voice their concerns about recent activity, including nightly drug dealing. Most disturbingly, the dealing has recently led to drive-by shots being fired at the park. The shootings generally occur around dinnertime, and with summer underway, the lively park and its visitors now face some danger. The children are out and about, and a basketball program is commencing next week in the park. Parents, grandparents, and neighbors are, understandably, extremely concerned.

Emily and Carolyn Miller attend the neighborhood meeting

They are also determined to see that this activity ends. With the help of the Lexington Police and our office, the community members agreed to be proactive in curtailing these illegal and life-threatening acts. They stand ready to take down license plate numbers if necessary, call the police with information, and educate others to look out for suspicious behavior. We will also be in attendance for their meeting next month. These acts of violence are meant to intimidate this community, but we saw a group of people committed to fighting back. We intend to help them in their fight.

REPORT NO. 7
Mortgage Fraud Legislation

By Sarah Hale

Mortgaging a home is a complicated process. There is so much paperwork. All of that paperwork needs to be filled out accurately and honestly. It seems obvious that intentionally falsifying any information would be a violation of the law.

Unfortunately, as of June 2006, in the Commonwealth of Kentucky there is no statute criminalizing mortgage fraud. There is no law specifically prohibiting misstatements, misrepresentations or intentional omissions on documents used in the mortgage lending process. In the absence of such law, Kentucky ’s Commonwealth’s Attorneys are forced to prosecute cases of mortgage fraud under pre-existing theft statutes that don’t directly address the crime.

Mortgage fraud is becoming increasingly prevalent in the world of white collar crime and states need laws under which perpetrators of mortgage fraud can be directly prosecuted for their acts.

Sarah during the mortgage fraud discussion

In May, 2005, Georgia became the first state to directly respond to the mortgage fraud problem by enacting the Georgia Residential Mortgage Fraud Act. The Act clearly defines the crime of mortgage fraud and proscribes punishment guidelines for those convicted. Several other states have introduced bills to address the issue. In early 2006, in an effort to contend with the mortgage fraud problems in their states, legislators from New Jersey, Utah, Oklahoma and Colorado introduced bills that are similar to the Georgia Act. Thus far Kentucky has not introduced such a bill.

Over the summer, Todd, Brandon and I will work with Commonwealth’s Attorney Ray Larson and Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Jason Rothrock to draft a proposal for a mortgage fraud statute in Kentucky. Our hope is that we can impress some members of our Legislature with the importance of addressing mortgage fraud in Kentucky.

REPORT NO. 8
American DA - LIVE

By Beth Caudill

With a guest list boasting the most intriguing and well-known prosecutors from around the country who are responsible for convictions of the most infamous criminals—from Jeffrey Dahmer and Ted Bundy to the Columbine school shootings—it may seem like I am describing the drama of a Dateline or 20/20 interview. However, these are just some of the few guests that have participated in the radio program American DA - LIVE, straight from Lexington, Kentucky hosted by radio personality Jack Pattie who was joined by Commonwealth’s Attorney Ray Larson.

Megan, Sara, and Beth with Jack Pattie

American DA - LIVE  hits the air every other Friday morning as a new criminal justice trial or issue is discussed and an expert on the topic shares their insight. On May 26, the guest was Wes Adams, an Assistant State’s Attorney from Baltimore, Maryland addressing the issue of witness intimidation which currently plagues the criminal justice system in many of America’s larger cities.

To prepare for the program, I began by researching the topic of witness intimidation. I read numerous articles which described particular cases and the impact intimidation had on the outcome of those cases. I even called Mr. Adams and spoke to him at length in order to prepare an outline and a list of questions that our audience would find interesting.

Early on Friday morning, Sara Jennings, Megan Thompson, and I accompanied Mr. Larson to the WVLK studio. From the beginning of the interview, I felt it was clear how serious the problem had become in the large cities. With an average of more than 300 murders a year in Baltimore (compared to Lexington’s annual 20 murders), the diverse gang population mixed with a large drug culture results in enormous territorial struggles. Witnesses to crimes, including murders, assaults, and robberies, are often threatened and harassed in an attempt to keep them from testifying in court. Quite often, those witnesses choose to recant their statement, or change their statement on the witness stand, as a result of the numerous threats. From a prosecutor’s standpoint, losing these testimonies can be devastating to a case and Mr. Adams recalled many of his own cases resulting in dismissals after a witness mysteriously disappeared. Maryland has passed legislation raising the penalties for those caught transmitting threats.

The interns with Officer Don Evans

We also attended the recording of a second radio program known as In-Touch. This 15-minute segment is played on all seven Clear Channel stations at different times throughout the week. Officer Don Evans, a local radio personality/police officer and Ray talk about issues pertinent to Lexington citizens. This week, the topic was a new bill recently passed allowing information about dangerous juveniles to be released to the public.

Ray also introduced the Summer Prosecutorial Internship Program. Sara, Megan, and myself were interviewed on the air by Officer Don. He asked us questions about our experiences so far and how other students could take advantage of the same opportunity next year.

As a communications major, I realize the importance of communicating with the public. Conveying the message of the law and safety of the citizens in Lexington is crucial to the success of the criminal justice system.

REPORT NO. 9
District Court Appearance

By Alex Gibson

Friday May 19th, 2006 the summer interns made the trip from the office across Limestone to the new courthouse for an interesting day in district court. The day began for Elizabeth Davis, the prosecuting attorney that particular day, at 8:00 a.m. Mrs. Davis spent the early morning negotiating with the defense attorney’s after reviewing the many cases only two days before. She spent some of that thirty minutes speaking with any victims who made private complaints to discover their goals of filing the complaint and any additional information that may be helpful to the prosecution. The interns helped Mrs. Davis in this process the day before, calling and speaking to victims and police officers. Being able to negotiate a guilty plea that the defendant will accept and that the prosecution feels is adequate, is not only beneficial for both sides but also for the court. These deals decrease the time spent on one particular case allowing other cases on the docket to be processed much quicker. There are approximately twenty-five cases on a docket on a Friday morning, so being able to find a solution before the case is called becomes an important part of the prosecutor’s job.

Brandon and Katherine at the bench with Judge Bouvier

Outside of the courtroom is a mad house to say the least. People were waiting for court to begin, including those who had been charged as well as the families of those in custody waiting to see their loved ones. Mrs. Davis told the interns that district court is often a time for discovery in particular cases. Most cases run smoothly and the discovery has already occurred, but some cases called for questioning of witnesses. In each case, the defendant was called from either the holding cell or from the audience. The defendant met the attorney at the podium on the right side of the room in front of the judge where the defense attorney would usually say a few words on behalf of his client. The judge was extremely clear and made it a point to make sure that the defendant and his attorney understood the ruling and the consequences of probation if probation was awarded.

Megan takes the witness stand and is questioned by Alex

Witnesses were called for some of the cases that were on the docket. The witnesses were either police officers or victims. Both the defense and the prosecuting attorneys took this time to ask the witnesses a series of questions. After questioning, Mrs. Davis might give the Commonwealth’s recommendation for punishment. The judge would then quickly rule, often taking the recommendation. There were a variety of cases including stalking, possession of controlled substances, trafficking, and domestic violence. One of the most interesting aspects of court was the demeanor of some defendants. It was clear from their attitude they did not take court seriously as they waved and smiled to the audience like celebrities when they emerged from the holding room. Most took the court seriously but there were those who will surely be back.

REPORT NO. 10
Crime Scene Investigations

By Sarah Hale

At 4:45 PM on my second “Day with a Detective” I was gathering my belongings and preparing to go home. I had enjoyed my time with the homicide detectives to whom I had been assigned, but the day was done and it was time to leave the Detective Bureau behind – and then the Sergeant’s phone rang. The body of a black male had been found in the Kentucky River. The identity of the man was unknown and the circumstances surrounding his appearance in the river were also, as of yet, undetermined. Although my day was technically over, Sergeant Williams was kind enough to invite me to join him and Detective Wilson as they went to investigate the possible crime scene. We left the downtown police station and drove to the scene of the gruesome discovery. Although the miles between the police station and the scene were relatively small, the difference in scenery was extreme. We left the city streets for small, winding country roads and muddy walking paths. We exchanged fresh summer air for a stale and humid atmosphere filled with gnats and mosquitoes. We left behind the office and went out into the field.

The Coroner retrieves a body from the river

As we pulled up we noticed that crews from local news stations had already arrived, as had several emergency responders. We first went to a boat dock but were told that the body was several hundred feet up the river, and that a quick drive around the corner would afford us a better look at the scene. We made the drive and got our first glimpse of the body. He was not, as the initial call had indicated, a black male, rather he was a white male whose skin had turned black due to exposure to the elements and decomposition. His body was badly bloated and his limbs had already stiffened. He wore blue jeans, a t-shirt, and boots. His watch was still on his wrist. I stood on the bank and looked at this body, this man whose life had somehow come to an end in this river. Members of the police department walked around me writing down information, asking questions and taking in the details of the scene.

Sgt. Williams of the Homicide Unit talks with Sarah and Ray

I followed as Sergeant Williams and Detective Wilson climbed back up the muddy path and headed toward the Sergeant’s car. We drove back to the boat dock and as we pulled into the mud and gravel lot we saw that others had arrived, including Commonwealth’s Attorney Ray Larson. After parking the Sergeant’s car alongside Mr. Larson’s we descended the incline to the water line and were told that the coroner had not yet arrived. The body could not be moved until the coroner arrived and so we waited. When the coroner arrived he boarded a boat and went up the river toward the body. This body would not be moved quickly, though. We waited nearly an hour for the coroner to complete his work and retrieve the body. It couldn’t be lifted into the boat but instead was floated alongside the boat as it made its way slowly downstream.

Chris watches the Fire Department's Rescue Team launch its boat

The entire process was slow and meticulous, but that is, of course, necessary in situations such as these. A life had been ended and none of us at the scene knew how that life had ended, and in order to find the answer to that question detectives would need the scene to be well preserved and not contaminated or destroyed. And so, as Mr. Larson commented to me, we did a great deal of “hurry up and wait.” But fortunately it wasn’t completely unproductive waiting. Theories were tossed about, calls were answered regarding tips and leads were followed up on. A vehicle which had been abandoned on a stretch of the interstate just overhead was investigated, as was a person who had recently been reported missing. The missing person had red hair, though, and as our body was pulled from the river his hair appeared to have been blond.

Around 7 that afternoon we pulled out of the gravel lot, just in front of the coroner’s van, and made our way back downtown. Questions left unanswered that evening will hopefully be answered in the days to come. Who was this man? What happened in the last hours of his life that led to his body floating in the Kentucky River? These are the questions that crime scenes present to detectives. The scene presents a story with gaps and holes which detectives must fill. Crime scenes, as I saw on this day, don’t come neat and clean, they come messy and disordered and often with a foul smell.

REPORT NO. 11
Day with a Detective

By Chris Keller

With each day working for Ray Larson comes a new and exciting experience. The “Day with a Detective” was a behind-the-scene look at what detectives do each and every day.

We made the short walk from our office to the Lexington Police Department where we met with the Detectives in the Detective Bureau. After a brief introduction, we were shown the video surveillance footage of an armed robbery that had occurred at a local convenient store. A man had entered the store and implied that he had a gun by putting his hand in his pocket and pointing it towards the clerk demanding money from the cash register; however, what he did not know was the clerk was armed and instead of reaching into the cash drawer she grabbed a pistol located under the register and shot the robber in the chest. This was just the start of a very exciting day!

After viewing the video, each intern was assigned to a specific unit within the Detective Bureau: Personal Crimes (Homicide and Robbery), Property, Forensic Services, Crimes Against Children and Family Abuse. We then spent the day with a detective assisting them in their investigations, whether it be interviewing witnesses, viewing a crime scene, collecting evidence or interrogating suspects.

I was assigned to Personal Crimes and got to spend time with homicide detectives and robbery detectives. On Tuesday, I spent the morning with homicide detectives, Detective Brotherton and Detective Wilson, investigating the Erica Butler murder. Our first stop was a police informant’s house to get some information on where a possible suspect lived. After visiting with the informant, we made our way to the address she had given us; unfortunately, the suspect was not there, so we were forced to move on. Our next stop was the Fayette County Detention Center to visit an inmate to try to get some information on another suspect and where he may be living. After talking with the inmate it was back to the office to piece together all the information we had received.

Fingerprints taken at the Police Station

My afternoon was spent with a robbery detective, Detective Richardson, investigating several robberies, one that occurred at a jewelry store and another at a pharmacy. We visited several addresses of people thought to have information. We also visited the pharmacy to follow up on some leads that were received.

On the second day, we again reported back to the Detective Bureau and met back up with our assigned detective. After a relatively uneventful morning of sifting through paperwork and following up on leads (part of being a detective), the afternoon was really a surprise. A man entered the Whitaker Bank on Paris Pike and robbed it at gunpoint escaping with a little under $2000.00. I accompanied the robbery detectives to the scene to gather information and collect evidence. Fortunately, the surveillance cameras in the bank captured the robber on tape and with the assistance of the Forensic Services Unit, fingerprints were taken off the door in which the robber had entered and left. Also, tellers were able to get a partial on the license plate of the vehicle. With all the information that the detectives were able to collect, it is likely that the robber will be caught. Later in the day, I made the trip down to the Kentucky River close to the Clays Ferry Bridge to investigate a possible homicide, when a boater found a body in the river. Homicide Detectives along with members of the Fire and Rescue and police officers of the Lexington Police Department were all on the scene. News crews closely watched from behind the crime scene tape.

My “Day with a Detective” was a very exciting experience in which I learned so much about being a detective—the hard work and dedication that it takes to solve crimes. However, since we each had an unique and exciting experience, each intern has included a brief summary of their “Day with a Detective.”
 

Brittany Blackburn
My “Day with a Detective” taught me how detectives normally proceed with family abuse investigations. We visited the Children’s Advocacy Center, where victims of reported sexual abuse are interviewed and examined. The Center is very kid-friendly and is designed to make children more comfortable throughout the investigation process. My experience with the detectives showed me how much time and energy they continually use to help every child in any way possible.

Beth Caudill
I was assigned to the Forensic Services Unit for my “Day with a Detective,” which is the evidence collection unit. I got to accompany Detective Luke Young to investigate a burglary. Someone had broken into a man’s house and stolen more than 300 DVD’s and video games, expensive bottles of wine, and even taken his clothes from his closets and drawers. After taking fingerprints from items left behind, we were pleased to see we had a clean print, so hopefully the burglar won’t get away!

Brandon Faulkner
Spending two days working alongside Lexington’s homicide detectives will make anyone unfamiliar with their line of work appreciative of the long hours and leg-work they endure. From responding to crime scenes at any hour of the day or night to pursuing witnesses, these detectives strive to ensure that the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office has every available piece of evidence when building a case against a suspected murderer. The experience made me even more aware of the dedication and effort it takes at all levels of law enforcement to bring criminals to justice.

Katherine Fitzpatrick
I saw the quiet side of detective work. Assigned to Detective Bill Brislin, I spent most of the day contacting witnesses for interviews and following up on leads for cold cases. Although my “Day with a Detective” was far from a Law and Order episode, I learned a lot about the detectives and the leg-work necessary to close a case.


Alexandra Gibson
My experience with the homicide detectives was a memorable one. I was involved in interviewing victims, prostitutes and potential suspects in various cases. I heard many exciting stories about past and current investigations and learned just how difficult investigating a murder trial can be. I found out first hand the stress placed on homicide detectives and the importance of their position.

Todd Greer
I spent my “Day with a Detective” with the Property Crimes Unit. I was surprised to learn that copper is such a high value target for thieves in Kentucky. Churches have repeatedly been victimized by thieves who strip their air conditioners for the copper inside. The Property Crimes Unit is working diligently to address copper thefts in Kentucky. It was disheartening to learn the number of complaints that are filed daily as a result of this crime wave.

Sarah Hale
My two days in the Detective Bureau were spent primarily with homicide detectives Brotherton and Wilson. I had a tremendously good time and in the process learned a great deal about detectives. I was particularly surprised to see the extent to which the detectives are involved in all stages of the criminal process. Over the course of my two days with the detectives I saw them speak with informants, track down possible witnesses or suspects, testify at a murder trial (as well as attend closing arguments and the reading of the verdict) and near the end of my second day I rode along as the detectives were among the first to respond to a body found floating in the Kentucky River. A detective’s work, as I saw in my time with them, begins at the first report of possible criminal activity and doesn’t end until the final verdict is read.

Sara Jennings
My two days with the detectives really gave me insight into what this profession really is about. I gained a tremendous amount of respect for these individuals and their careers. I spent the first day with the homicide detectives. Detective Wilson, Detective Cain, Megan and I went to Estill County to interview some friends and family of a victim in a case with a suspicious death. We looked through his apartment for clues to help piece together a timeline of his last night.
The next day I went with the Forensics Unit to observe their day-to-day activities. We were called to a suicide. It was hard to deal with at first, but I realized that this is something these guys see everyday. After we collected evidence there, we went to Lowe’s to look at surveillance footage. We also had to go to the police impound to retrieve a bullet from a tire on a car involved in a shoot-out. Finally, Detective Wilson gave me a tour of the Lexington Police helicopter. These two days with the detectives were insightful, exciting and interesting all at the same time. It was a very memorable experience.

Blake Nolan
For my “Day With a Detective” I was assigned to the Forensic Services Unit of the Lexington Police Department with Detectives Luke Young and Steve White. These Detectives are in charge of collecting evidence and dusting for fingerprints at crime scenes. On the second day at around 12:30 pm we got a call to respond to a bank robbery at the Whitaker Bank on Paris Pike. When we arrived on the scene we immediately went to the office to view the surveillance video to determine where the suspect placed his hands in order to lift fingerprints. The Detectives were able to gather two sets of fingerprints from the glass on the two front doors. With the evidence collected the Detectives were optimistic about catching the suspect and making an arrest within the next few days.

Michelle Peyton
I was assigned to spend the day with detectives from the Crimes Against Children Unit. My first assignment was to call either the mother, father, or legal guardian of runaway children and get an update on the situation. By using the Missing Persons Report I was able to get some information on the case. The majority of the parents were unavailable or said their child was still not at home.

My next adventure of the day was to go along with two detectives to find a thirteen year old male and interview him. We drove to the apartment of the juvenile’s mother and the two detectives knocked on the door. Honestly, I was a little frightened and uncomfortable with the unfamiliar surroundings. However, it seemed to me that this was a everyday event for the detectives. One of the detectives went into the apartment and talked with the mother of the juvenile. The other detective brought the juvenile outside of the apartment and tried to talk to him. The juvenile, however didn’t answer any of the detective’s questions and just replied with “I don’t know.” The mother did not want her son to go with the detectives down to the police department and she told them she would bring her son there at 3:00 when her car came back. The detective believed there was a fifty-fifty chance the mother would bring her son down to the police department to be interviewed. If the juvenile is not brought the next step will be to get a warrant for his arrest and the detectives will then be able to interview him. Overall, I had a very interesting day with the detectives. I really enjoyed seeing firsthand what they do and how they fit into the criminal justice system.

Megan Thompson
For my “day with a Detective,” I spent two days with the homicide detectives of the Lexington Detective Bureau. These two days entailed everything from investigating a death to working a prostitution sting. Detectives are truly an integral part of our criminal justice system and play various roles during an investigation. I witnessed Detective Rob Wilson not only investigate a death, but he also acted as a counselor to the victim’s family who was very upset and confused about their loss. This experience made me appreciate all of the hard work that our detectives do daily to ensure that our community is a safer place to live.

Emily Wessel
Detective Aundria Burkhart of the Lexington Detective Bureau pulls out onto Main Street, on the way to the University Kentucky hospital. Burkhart works on family abuse crimes, including domestic abuse, stalking, and harassment. Today she visits the medical center to interview a victim who was pushed down the stairs by her husband.

Throughout the day, we talked with victims, family members, and friends in an effort to gather more facts about each case. If the crime has been reported shortly after the offense occurs, the Forensics Unit will accompany Burkhart to take photos of any injuries. The work must be done quickly, as physical evidence of a crime often comes in the form of bruises, welts, or scratches; all, fortunately, impermanent. Unfortunately, these crimes are often unreported. When they are reported, a victim may later retract his or her statement for a variety of reasons, leaving the police and our office to investigate and often prosecute without the benefit of a cooperative plaintiff.

As a law student, I recognize the vital function of Burkhart’s work. Family abuse, so secretive in nature, presents one of the greater evidentiary challenges for a prosecutor. As a woman, I appreciate the urgency with which Burkhart approaches her cases. Because these crimes are most often committed by a male against his wife or girlfriend, a degree of embarrassment, shame, and fear may deter a victim from turning in her accuser. Sometimes it is only a matter of time before a victim is seriously injured, or even killed, by her abuser. As I watch Burkhart explain to a victim how to file an “Emergency Protective Order” and how to take the steps necessary to obtain a divorce, I watch as a small amount of that fear turns into hope.
 

As you can see, each and every intern had an exceptional experience during the “Day with a Detective.” The “Day with a Detective” was an amazing opportunity to see how detectives go about gathering information and collecting evidence—this information and evidence is then used to assist the Commonwealth’s Attorneys in preparing a case for trial. Without the hard work of these detectives it would be impossible for the attorneys to prosecute criminals. We would like to thank the detectives at the Lexington Police Department for allowing us to spend the day with them.

REPORT NO. 12
Police Firing Range

by Katherine Fitzpatrick

On a narrow road behind the Bluegrass airport is a firing range operated by the Lexington Police Department. And one cool Monday morning in June, interns arrived ready to shoot a gun for the very first time. But before we got to the guns, Lexington’s Homicide detectives joined us for a lesson on ballistics and a video simulator used by the police to promote good judgment with guns.

Katherine receives help from Ronnie Freels

Ronnie Freels, a former firearms examiner for the Kentucky State Police, gave the lecture on ballistics. Mr. Freels had been with the crime lab in Frankfort for over 27 years and had much to say about the history and impact of ballistics. He explained that while there are four aspects to ballistics, he deals exclusively with forensic ballistics—firearms and bullet identification—the type of thing you might see on CSI or Law & Order.

We reviewed the anatomy of guns and bullets and discovered how experts analyze these to match a single shot to a particular weapon. After classifying the bullet by the three C’s (caliber, color, and coating), ballistics experts measure the marks left at the base of a bullet and attempt to match them to a particular make and model of a gun based on individual ‘rifling’ patterns. Rifling, we learned, refers to the number and size of grooves inside the barrel of every gun. Bullets, when forced through a gun barrel, are marked by these grooves, leaving a telltale signature on every bullet.

Brandon practices with the video simulator

Next, we lined-up to experience the video simulator, Good Judgment/Bad Judgment. This program is used by the Lexington Police to train officers to use their guns responsibly and effectively. A large video screen displays a number of situations where officers may be required to use deadly force like a school shooting, violent domestic dispute, and drug-raid. A Glock-9 handgun, the same model carried by most police, is wired with a laser light to project and record any and all shots. The simulation is interactive and much like a ‘choose-your-own-adventure’ storybook, situations change depending on what you say and whether you choose to shoot. Each intern had a turn and when they were through, an officer replayed the footage with them shot by shot to determine whether each shot taken was justified. The detectives explained that for every shot a police officer takes, he has to be able to justify it with concrete reasons. Training activities like this are more than target practice; they help officers practice critical, last-second decision-making in a risk-free environment.

Todd practices shooting the handgun

Finally, it was time to put our skills to the test. After putting on our safety glasses and earplugs, we headed out to the range. We stood single-file as the range officer Todd Johnson called us one by one to a line fifteen feet from our target—a human silhouette. We started with the Glock-9 handgun and worked our way up to a shotgun and semi-automatic rifle. Having worked on the Daryl Burrell murder trial where the defendant used a sawed-off shotgun, it was especially frightening to fire one and witness the damage it is capable of. The blast was so powerful that several interns had bruises from the gun’s kickback.

For me, the day at the range was the most exciting field trip yet. Because I had never really been around guns nor fired one, I was anxious about the day and was curious how I would react. After going through the ballistics and safety demonstrations, I gradually felt more comfortable with the prospect of actually firing a gun. And once out there on the range, gun in hand, I was both surprised and terrified how easy it was. Now that it’s all over, I am more conscious than ever of the risks and stress police officers face on the job.

REPORT NO. 13
Prostitution Sting

REPORT NO. 14
Senior Internship Luncheon

by Blake Nolan

The Senior Internship Program is a great opportunity for the senior citizens living in Lexington to be a part of the criminal justice system for a few days without the hassle of being arrested. This lively group of men and women have the opportunity to participate in activities such as touring the police department, meeting with City Council members, and learning about the prosecutorial side of crime fighting. Several of interns from Ray’s office and I had the pleasure of going to visit with these senior interns and speak with them about the activities we have participated in so far this summer.

Katherine describes her activities at the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office to the senior interns

Ray began the luncheon by explaining to the senior interns what the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office actually does. He told them that his office is concerned with prosecuting criminals who commit felonies, and that felonies are any crime that is punishable by one year or more in prison all the way up to a death sentence if the right conditions apply. Ray also explained that the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office is concerned with protecting the innocent citizens of Lexington by keeping dangerous criminals off the street, and with treating all people who commit crimes equally, whether you are the Mayor of Lexington or a resident of the Hope Center.

He then proceeded to give the senior interns a lesson on the differences between theft, burglary, and robbery. These are terms that many people misuse regularly and it is always a good idea to educate citizens in a way that is fun and interactive. Ray also explained to the crowd that about 80 percent of the crimes in Lexington are committed by about five percent of the criminals. Also, there are around 2600 burglaries in the Lexington community each year and these are done by several of the same criminals over and over again. The police once caught a man who had burglarized 125 homes on the day they caught him. These statistics are always an eye-opener for citizens like these senior interns who are concerned for the safety of the community in which they live.

Todd does the same

At the end of the luncheon it was our turn to speak. One by one we all introduced ourselves and explained a few of the activities we had done so far this summer. Katherine described going to the police firing range, Todd described how he had researched the law pertaining to the new sex offender law that will be going into effect in mid-July, and I discussed our trip to the Fayette County Detention Center (or the Fayette County Country Club as we affectionately call it). We all explained how much we have learned these five weeks into the program and what a valuable experience the prosecutorial internship program has been for all of us. Todd said that it was worth every penny of the 18 cents per hour that Ray is paying us.

The interns pose in front of the Lexington Police Department

Overall the Senior Internship Luncheon was an extremely positive experience. We got a chance to meet a great group of individuals who are very curious about the criminal justice system in Lexington and are always willing to learn new things and be a positive part of the community. These senior citizens are very concerned with the safety of the community and love nothing more than to educate themselves on how the police and Commonwealth’s Attorney's are working hard to keep Lexington a safe community to live in.

REPORT NO. 15
Intern Luncheon

By Sarah Hale

As interns at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, we have spent the last nine weeks working with prosecutors and learning a great deal about the criminal justice system. Last Friday we had the opportunity to share our experiences with our families. The office hosted nearly 80 family members and friends of ours for an Intern Luncheon. Our guests began arriving around 11:30 and they were greeted with smiling faces and an enticing spread of food. Ray worked the lobby, offering a handshake and friendly conversation as mothers, fathers and sisters stepped off the elevator. After mingling in the lobby we made our way back to the conference room where Ray introduced himself and the rest of the office staff. The interns then took turns introducing themselves and their guests and recounting a favorite memory from the internship. With the introductions behind us we all turned our attention to the front of the room to watch a video produced by Jason Rothrock. The Real World-style video featured each intern discussing the internship program and also included clips of the interns hard at work in the office. After the video and brief closing remarks by Ray, the group spread out to tour the office and several even ventured across the street to the Circuit Court to give their families a glimpse into real life criminal proceedings. As is often the case, each intern experienced the event in a slightly different manner and the full experience can only be felt by letting each of the interns speak to their own experience.
 

Brittany Blackburn

The Blackburn gang

Our office Intern Luncheon was a wonderful experience for both me and my family. My guests greatly appreciated the opportunity to see what I, along with all the other summer interns, do throughout the day. My parents were especially grateful to meet Barbra Salyer, the attorney with which I work, and listened as we explained the trial on which we are currently preparing. My parents were also greatly impressed with the friendly staff and attorneys present at the luncheon.

Beth Caudill

The Caudill gang

My Grandmother and my older sister, Tami, attended the Intern Luncheon with me. My Grandma was an attorney for the federal courts, so she was particularly interested to meet Ray and understand what kind of cases are prosecuted through the office. Tami, who is currently in dental school at the University of Kentucky, also seemed pleasantly surprised at what I have been doing all summer and how much I have learned. I am very glad they had the chance to meet everyone and get an insider’s look at the workings of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

Brandon Faulkner

The Faulkner gang

The Intern Luncheon was a great opportunity for me to show my family just how two years of tuition and hard work at law school are finally being put use in the “Real World.” My parents and grandmother were ecstatic at the opportunity to see where I have been running off to work every morning this summer and to gain a little insight into just what type of work is done here at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. All-in-all the luncheon was a great opportunity to give my family a brief introduction to the criminal justice system and how I hope to put my law degree to use in the future.

Katherine Fitzpatrick

The  Fitzpatrick gang

The luncheon was a success and a great way to end the summer. My parents were especially pleased to meet all the interns and attorneys I’ve been working with. And the video was a hit. Along with a goody-bag from Ray, all the interns received a copy of the DVD. So my grandmother, who was unable to attend the luncheon, was able to see my workplace and ‘meet’ my colleagues in her living room!

Alexandra Gibson

The Gibson gang

As Ray has said numerous times, at this phase in my life, my parents find it difficult to extract information from me regarding my daily activities. As assumed, they were delighted to receive the newsletters to learn of my recent learning experience in my exciting summer internship. To add to the summer, they were also more than happy to make the journey from Owensboro to take the opportunity to meet the attorney’s that they have read about and the man who made it all happen. As they took in the comical but informative video, met other interns and their proud parents, they commented it was a great end to a wonderful summer of learning.

Todd Greer

The Greer gang

The Intern luncheon was a great opportunity for my family to visit the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and see first-hand the various projects that I had been working on. It was a treat to introduce my family to the attorneys that I had been working with and give them a tour of the office. Each of the interns’ families seemed impressed with the large amount of responsibility that the interns have taken on and we were all very happy to show our families the work that we have been doing.

The Hale gang

Sarah Hale

I was joined by my mother at the Intern Luncheon and the two of us thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. I was pleased to have the opportunity to introduce my mother to Ray and the other attorneys as well as the office staff and my fellow interns. I also gave her a tour of the office and the Circuit Court as well.

Sara Jennings

The Jennings gang

The luncheon on Friday was a wonderful opportunity for my family, as well as, the other interns’ families to really see what our internship has been about. I loved the video that was produced by Jason Rothrock. My family thoroughly enjoyed talking to Ray Larson and the other attorneys and staff. They were very pleased with the office and how it functions. After the luncheon, my family and I went to the courthouse to tour the facility. I wanted to show them every detail of what I do on a day-to-day basis. My dad, mom, uncle and little sister were surprised at the real life situations I have been exposed to and the increase in my maturity level. The luncheon was a pleasure for everyone.


Chris Keller

Chris Keller

Being able to bring my parents to work and show them around was really nice. My parents really enjoyed being able to see where I work as well as meeting Ray and all the attorneys and staff. Now they are able to put faces with names when I tell them stories from work. The intern luncheon was a big hit.

Blake Nolan

The Nolan gang

My mother, father, younger brother, and fiancée all attended the internship luncheon. They were very excited to learn more about my experiences at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office this summer. They also enjoyed being able to put faces with the names that I have been talking about all summer. My parents were very appreciative of how Ray makes such an effort to include the families of the interns in the activities. Overall my family had a great time at the luncheon and it was a huge success.

Michelle Peyton

The Peyton gang

The Intern Luncheon was a great opportunity to meet all the families and friends I have heard so much about over the summer. My mother was able to attend and she enjoyed meeting everyone in the office and understanding more about what I have been doing this summer. Overall the luncheon was a fun experience and I am grateful I had the opportunity to share it with my family.

Megan Thompson

The Thompson gang

College internships typically consist of various significant moments in a student’s life, but are almost always shadowed from their parent’s knowledge. This has been the first internship I have participated in that my parents are fully aware of what activities I have been involved with all summer. To add icing to the cake, my parents were able to trek to Lexington from Elizabethtown for the parents luncheon that took place in the heart of downtown Lexington. This experience was rewarding for my family, as they were able to see exactly how much fun I have had this summer.


Emily Wessel

The Wessel gang

The Intern Luncheon was a hit, for both my guests and me. I was fortunate that my parents and my boyfriend, Dave, who is currently in his first semester at Michigan Law, were able to attend. It was important to me that they got to see where I work and, most importantly, meet the people who have influenced my life so positively this summer. From the fabulous fried chicken to Jason Rockroth’s “Real World Lexington” video, the event couldn’t have been better.
 

The Intern Luncheon was clearly enjoyed by all who attended. It was an opportunity to give our families a glimpse into the beginnings of our professional lives. We are all appreciative of the opportunity we have been given to work in the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and further appreciative of the opportunity we were given last week to share our work with our families.

REPORT NO. 16
The Lexington Police Helicopter

My day with the detective was filled with excitement, curiosity, and shock. I did several interesting activities, but one activity that was particularly exciting was my tour of the Lexington Police helicopter. Detective Steve White, a detective for the Forensics Unit, is also a part-time member of the air unit. I was assigned to shadow and observe Detective White during my visit at the Police Department.

The air unit is fairly new to the Police Department, and the detectives are still trying to perfect it. I spent my second day with Detective White, and our last activity was to see the helicopter. The pilot is Officer Don Evans, but the department is in the process of training more pilots. The air unit flies on Friday and Saturday nights and assists the patrol officers on the ground. The helicopter has the capability to lock suspects into its computer and follow them if they are fleeing on foot or in a car.

Sara prepares for flight

Detective White hopes the helicopter will eventually be equipped with a map of Fayette County on the computer system. This would enable him type in exact addresses of dispatch calls, and the map would show him exactly where to fly. As of now, Detective White must use regular maps to try to find where a dispatch call is directing him. The helicopter seats five people comfortably and contains a spotlight on the back. Detective White showed me how all the dials worked, and he actually showed me how to fly the helicopter. Even though I did not get to fly in the air, it was still exciting just to see how the helicopter really worked. I thoroughly enjoyed learning how the helicopter works. It is a true asset to the Lexington Police Department.

REPORT NO. 17
Camp Blackburn

by Brittany Blackburn

Spread out among 100 acres is Blackburn Correctional Complex, Kentucky’s largest minimum security prison. Resembling a farm more than a correctional facility, visitors are often surprised by the complex’s beautiful bluegrass and horses. As we entered the grounds for a tour early one morning, however, we realized that this prison is not exactly a vacation resort.

Although the Complex appears friendly and welcoming on the outside, guests who visit the prison realize that it’s no picnic. After a hard day of farm work, the inmates return to their dorms, most of which consist of one large room filled with nearly twenty bunk beds. These dorms are called “Core Units,” and inmates are assigned to each unit based on their previous crimes and current behavior. The most well-behaved inmates receive their own small room, complete with a bed, sink, and toilet.

Inmates at the Complex engage in rehabilitation programs such as drug treatment programs and most receive personal counseling. Because the prison is a minimum security complex, gates do not block the complex from the nearby interstate highway. Guards are stationed around the perimeter, and a barbed-wire fence divides the prison from nearby residential areas. Our tour guide noted that some inmates do escape, although most are deterred because of the extra sentencing they will face once apprehended. So far this year, about ten inmates have escaped from Blackburn Correctional Complex, four of whom have been recaptured.

Blackburn’s picturesque farmland should not be confused for a laid-back retreat. Personal privacy does not exist, as inmates must sleep, shower, work, and eat together everyday. Inmates are paid for their work, although most only receive approximately twenty dollars per month, and most inmates use their income to purchase cigarettes and soda. More importantly, however, officers and employees of Blackburn’s Correctional Complex believe that through the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation, prisoners are encouraged to change their outlook on the world and will ultimately make a positive transformation in their own life.

REPORT NO. 18
OxyContin Abuse in Eastern Kentucky

by Michelle Peyton

Kentucky was ranked within the top ten states of OxyContin prescription rates and having the most significant abuse problems in 2000. OxyContin, which is a pharmaceutical drug has been abused for the past ten years in rural Kentucky. It is among the most powerful drugs of its kind and is reportedly sixteen times more powerful than similar narcotics. OxyContin is a synthetic opioid, which is produced from the opium poppy. The drug is manufactured to provide pain relief by acting on opioid receptors in the brain, the spinal cord, and directly on tissue, and was designed for terminally ill patients. It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1995 and first marketed in 1996. The drug was marketed by Purdue Pharma, in which their sales totaled $2 billion from OxyContin alone over the first five years. Pharma Purdue’s sales force spent 80 percent of its time promoting and advertising OxyContin in the Spring of 2002.

Southeastern Kentucky has a long history of pharmaceutical abuse and after OxyContin was over-prescribed and trafficked, it became the new drug of abuse in rural Kentucky. Abusers acquire OxyContin by fraudulent prescriptions; through illegal sales; by pharmacy theft and doctor shopping; by individuals diverting and selling it; and by the way of foreign diversion and smuggling into the United States. A dramatic increase in the number of pharmacy robberies, burglaries, and thefts were reported when OxyContin abuse increased. In 1998, a program was implemented in Kentucky called Kentucky All-Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting System (KASPER) to help doctors and pharmacists monitor patient’s prescriptions, the prescription’s source, and frequency of refill.

The prescription drug OxyContin

Pharmaceutical abusers come from all walks of life and the number of abusers continue to increase. In Greenup Couny, which is located in Eastern Kentucky, a Commonwealth Attorney claimed that the Circuit Court docket increased almost 25 percent in 2001 because of cases of prescription drug abuse. However, the numbers dropped back down after the year 2001 and it remains that way today. One probable reason for this is that police responded to a socially constructed crisis and after the attention was gone, policing returned to methamphetamine, which is a more serious drug of abuse.

OxyContin use is not affecting drug arrest rates, given that arrests increased significantly in 2001, but decreased in 2002. The Lexington Herald Leader ran a series on OxyContin, which inaccurately presented OxyContin as the most significant factor for explaining worsening crime trends. The question we should ask is if the OxyContin abuse panic is socially constructed and if the perceived drug problem correspond to its actual social or individual harm. It should also be considered that the reaction to the increased use of the prescription drug was only a “drug scare,” which is an independent phenomena, not based on actual trends or patterns in drug use, but instead rhetorical than empirical. The statistics may show that in recent years OxyContin abuse has decreased, however we must be aware and cautious of the danger addictive prescription drugs has on our society.

REPORT NO. 19
Juvenile Detention Center Tour

by Brandon Faulkner

From the moment a juvenile offender from the Bluegrass region enters the Fayette County Juvenile Detention Center, it becomes immediately clear that whatever type of behavior earned them a stay here will no longer be tolerated inside the facility. Upon entering the facility’s intake room, new residents are required to read aloud the new rules that will govern their day-to-day routine as officers in the state of the art control room monitor their every move. The typical teenage response of “yeah” to any form of question or order will no longer be tolerated. Instead, only responses such as “yes sir” or “no ma’am” will do. Anytime a resident walks through the facility, his or her arms must be behind the back with fingers and thumbs interlocked. Perhaps most importantly, the resident’s old routine of skipping school and staying up all night gives way to a highly structured day beginning at 6:30 in the morning and ending at 9:30 at night. These rigid rules coupled with the fact that nearly all contact with the outside world is lost inside the facility provide many residents with a type of discipline and structure they have never experienced in life and hopefully serve as a wake-up call that their behavior must change if they are going to be a contributing member of society.

The interns getting ready for a tour of the facility

The Fayette County Juvenile Detention Center currently houses 48 male and female residents between the ages of 12 and 19 ½ years old from Fayette and surrounding counties. However, the facility is preparing to expand to 63 residents within the next month as the need for this type of program continues to grow and more officers complete the training necessary to work inside a juvenile detention center. Although the average stay inside the facility is relatively short at seven days, some residents have been inside the facility for up to 225 as they serve time for charges ranging from criminal mischief and truancy to murder. And despite the fact that some of the residents are cold-blooded killers, one thing is noticeably absent – officers inside the facility do not carry any type of gun or weapon. Officers instead rely on marshal arts training and a system rewards to keep the residents in line. But a couple of officers let us in on the real secret to changing the resident’s attitude – a good night’s sleep and a full belly.

Sarah reads the rules upon entering the building

While discipline and punishment are certainly the goal of any stay inside the center, it is a mistake to assume that is all that occurs within its walls. Great care is taken to improve every facet of a resident’s life. Each resident is required to participate in daily exercise activities followed by a 10-minute shower and time to groom themselves. Many of the juveniles who enter the center do not get a nutritious diet at home, but here they are entitled three healthy meals a day and are welcome to go back for seconds. Many of the residents apparently accept this invitation because, on average, a long-term resident of the facility will gain 35 pounds. Additionally, each resident is required to attend school from 9:00-3:00 daily and is allowed to check out one book at a time from the school’s library to read at night in their cells. Although residents are not entitled to watch television for hours on end, those residents who have followed all the rules and demonstrated good behavior throughout the week are entitled to a movie and popcorn on Saturday nights.

Hungry interns test out the snacks given to inmates

So while a stay in the Fayette County Juvenile Detention Center is certainly not all fun and games, neither is it a bleak experience with no hope for the future. Instead, the hope is that such a stay will serve as a wake-up call to get the youth headed down the right life path. Perhaps the easiest lesson for us all to take from the experience is that our young people need a consistent daily routine filled with both discipline and care in order to become productive members of society.

REPORT NO. 20
Murder Trials this Summer

by Beth Caudill and Michelle Peyton

During the course of this summer, the interns had numerous opportunities to attend the trials of several high-profile murder cases prosecuted by various attorneys throughout the office. From the opening statements to the closing arguments and everything in between, the trials proved to be an exciting learning experience for each of us.

Megan Liebengood Trial

The victim, Megan Liebengood

Megan Liebengood, an 18-year old newlywed married only 3 months, was returning home to her apartment off Codell Drive shortly after 10:45 pm with her groceries on September 15, 2004. Suddenly, 3 teenagers approached her and demanded her purse. After realizing that she had no money, they eventually shot her four times in the back of the head and left her to die in the parking lot.

Three teenage suspects were questioned a few days later. Patrick Cook, 17, Michael Shepherd, 16, and Robert Miller, 16 were later arrested and charged with murder, first-degree robbery, and tampering with physical evidence. Patrick Cook eventually pled guilty to Complicity to Robbery and testified at trial.

Mike Malone and Cindy Reiker

Mike Malone, First Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with Cindy Reiker, Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney, and Commonwealth Attorney Ray Larson prosecuted the case. Through the two-week trial, numerous witnesses testified to the events from that evening. Malone and Reiker rigorously questioned numerous friends of the defendants who were present during that evening, as well as police and detectives who conducted investigations at the crime scene.

After the jury began deliberation, only two hours passed before the jury returned guilty verdicts for the two juvenile, Michael Shepherd and Robert Miller. The jury recommended a life sentence without parole for 25 years, 20 years for Robbery, and 5 years for Tampering with Physical Evidence for the shooter, Michael Shepherd, 17.

Robert Miller, 18, was found guilty of Complicity to Murder and Robbery. The jury recommended 20 years for Complicity to Murder Liebengood, 15 years for Complicity to Robbery, and 5 years for Tampering with Physical Evidence for 40 years in prison.


Darryl Burrell Trial

Darryl Burrell

On the morning of September 14, 2004, Darryl Burrell entered the Dairy Mart on New Circle Road with a sawed-off shotgun. After taking the money out of the register from Ashley Cason, 22, he also took the wallets of the District Manager and a tobacco representative doing work. Next, he ordered the three into the back cooler. As he followed closely behind, he shot Ashley in the back and attempted to shoot the other two men before they fled out of the cooler and locked themselves in a side room. Darryl Burrell then left the Dairy Mart, and Ashley Cason died within a few minutes.
 

Kimberly Henderson-Baird and Dan Laren

Kimberly Henderson-Baird and Dan Laren joined Ray Larson in prosecuting this trial. During the opening statements, Dan used a PowerPoint Presentation to present pictures of the defendant entering the store with the weapon from the security cameras at the Dairy Mart. The graphic details of the murder were soon revealed, including audio and video clips of Darryl and the three victims from the Dairy Mart’s surveillance cameras, including Ashley Cason’s scream immediately after the gunshot.

The trial continued until the end of our first week when the defense declined to call any witnesses or introduce any evidence. Kimberly Henderson-Baird presented the closing argument and the jury was dismissed to deliberate the verdict. After seven hours of deliberation, the jury convicted Darryl Burrell of wanton murder, three counts of robbery, two counts of attempted murder and one count of tampering with physical evidence. The jury recommended life without the possibility of parole for Darryl Burrell.

Scott Malm Trial

The defendant ,Scott Malm

Twenty-one year old Alvis Thomas Agee was killed and Archibaldo Salcedo-Diaz was wounded during a drug deal on January 25, 2005. Agee and Salcedo-Diaz met intending to sell cocaine to Scott Malm. Salcedo-Diaz testified that Agee and he met Malm around 9:30 p.m. Agee got out of the truck and walked around to the back of it to weigh the cocaine for a man driving a white car which had pulled up behind them. Agee was soon shot in the head and shoulder, while Salcedo-Diaz was shot in the hand. After Salcedo-Diaz was shot, he leaned over on the driver’s side door pretending to be dead.

Police investigators arrested Malm after he answered a call made by police from a number drawn from Salcedo-Diaz’s cell phone. Cindy Rieker and Kimberly Henderson-Baird prosecuted the case and even called three of Malm’s former roommates to testify that Malm told them he had planned to rob Agee and possibly kill him. One of the former roommates, Jock Taylor told police that he was instructed by Malm to get rid of the murder weapon by disassembling it and throwing it out the window while Malm was taking him to work in Paris, KY. The prosecution was able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Malm committed the crimes, and he was convicted of murder, first-degree assault, two counts of first-degree robbery, tampering with physical evidence, and trafficking cocaine. While Judge Ishmael read the verdict and the sentencing recommendation by the jury of life in prison without parole, Scott Malm was not present in the courtroom because he became agitated with the testimony of his former roommates. Malm’s formal sentencing is scheduled for July 21.

REPORT NO. 21
Grand Jury Orientation

by Sarah Hale

When the prosecutors at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office wish to indict a person on criminal charges they must first present the case to a grand jury. Nine of the twelve grand jurors must vote to indict in order for the charges to go forward. Before I came to the office this summer I was aware of this procedure but it was all very abstract. To me the grand jury was a singular body that made decisions behind closed doors – it was nothing more. Through our summer internship I was afforded a peak behind those closed doors (albeit a necessarily limited one) and began to see what a grand jury really is. It is a group of twelve citizens, drawn from our community, serving their civic duty and doing immensely important work. It is a group of people that come together for ten days in their assigned month and bond with one another through making tough decisions that will greatly impact the lives of those indicted, persons whom the grand jurors have likely never even met. It is, indeed, a difficult task with which we charge these twelve people. I believe, though, that it is also a great benefit to those citizens who are selected to serve on the grand jury.

After talking with some of the grand jurors from May 2006 and observing the orientation for the June 2006 grand jury I realized the ways in which being on a grand jury can be enjoyable, interesting and educational for the randomly selected citizens. They get an education in criminal procedure which most people not working in the legal world will never be afforded. The grand jurors were given a binder at orientation which contained an overview of the criminal justice system and they were also given sample indictments. Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Andrea Williams explained the contents of the binder to the group and instructed them to direct any questions they may have to her or to any of the other Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorneys that would come before them throughout the month. The grand jurors were also instructed that they were to attend all of the assigned days and that if something unforeseen arose which would bar their attendance they were to call immediately, even if that meant calling Commonwealth’s Attorney Ray Larson at home in the middle of the night – his home number was given to the group.

The grand jurors seemed to sense the importance of their work. They listened attentively as the procedure was explained to them at orientation and when given the opportunity they asked questions to clarify points of confusion as to the particulars of their work. The grand jurors who were kind enough to speak with our group of interns before beginning their deliberations stressed the insights they had gained into the criminal justice system and to crime in general through their experience on the grand jury. One man commented that he now knew how much cocaine one needed to possess in order to be charged with trafficking rather than merely possession and he had also learned the going rate for cocaine on the streets of Lexington. Being on a grand jury gives citizens an opportunity to see the criminal justice system from the inside and it likely dispels misconceptions about patent unfairness in the process. Mr. Larson proudly told our group of interns that after every grand jury finishes their work he asks that they fill out a survey about their experience and that returns show that grand jurors do not feel pressured by the Commonwealth’s Attorneys to indict people but rather that they feel encouraged by the attorneys to deliberate fairly and come to their own determinations. At the grand jury phase of the criminal justice process it is the work of the Commonwealth’s Attorneys to make the case for indictment but they also make it their work to ensure that those indictments are fair. Citizens participating on a grand jury will see this fairness and I also saw it, before the doors closed again and secret deliberations began.

REPORT NO. 22
The Children's Advocacy Center

by Michelle Peyton

The Children’s Advocacy Center opened in May 1994 and is a non-profit organization that receives a substantial amount of its funding from grants. Children’s Advocacy Centers throughout the United States were started after the number of child victims began to increase and the unique problems these children face, began to surface. Agencies in charge of protecting and investigating allegations of abuse were in a sense re-victimizing the children in several ways, which included: performing multiple interviews, removing a child from family, performing medical examinations in an emergency room, and interviewing at the police station. After professionals came together to come up with a solution to lesson the traumas that the children faced, they decided on children’s advocacy centers. This would be a safe place like home that would be able to offer services the child and family may need.

The Children’s Advocacy Center in Lexington is a beautifully decorated, child friendly home. The Center offers several services, including personal advocacy, non-offending parent groups, teenage girl educational groups, therapy assessment, forensic interviews, forensic medical examinations, and a kids in court program. Most children who have been abused have a medical examination. Many times the child’s mother or legal guardian will sit with the child through the examination, which helps to keep the child as comfortable as possible. Each child receives a handmade blanket and stuffed animal before the exam to comfort them. The Center has special equipment in the room which allows the doctor to take pictures that could potentially be used in court. The medical examination room is delightfully decorated and the medical examiner is trained to work with sexually abused children, which is much better than the emergency room.

The Center also offers the Kids in Court program, which is provided to children who may soon be called to testify in their sexual abuse case. The goal is to encourage children to overcome their fears of testifying by giving them an opportunity to view the courtroom, meet the parties that will be involved with the trial, and participate in role-playing activities. This is a wonderful program because the testimony of sexually abused children can be very important during the trial. The Children’s Advocacy Center is a warm place that does a great job combating some of the problems child sexual abuse victims face.

REPORT NO. 23
Autopsy

by Blake Nolan

As we walked around the corner into the medical examiner’s office, we could not prepare ourselves for what we were about to see. Lying on a cold, steel table was the body of a large, dead man with his torso sliced open revealing all of his major organs. The physicians and technicians performing the autopsy began to explain to us that they were extracting the organs to weigh and examine them for any clues that would reveal a cause of death. From the autopsy they could tell that this man had an unhealthy lifestyle which included smoking and recreational drug use. The physicians explained that they would have to wait until a drug test came back before determining the exact cause of death.

The interns closely watch the autopsy

After the major organs were placed back into the body the physicians began to examine the head and the brain. At this point several of the interns, including myself, had to take a break from the autopsy. Opening the top of the skull and removing the brain was by far the most graphic part of the autopsy. Once the brain was removed, the technicians began to sew the body back up. The incisions were made in such a way that the family of the deceased man will not be able to see any scars and nobody will be able to tell that an autopsy was performed.

Blake and Beth watch from a distance

After the first body was sewn up, the technicians brought in another body to perform an autopsy on. They undressed him and began to do what they called an “external examination”. This includes measurements of the body and any observations they can make about the condition of the external portions of the body that would give physicians insight into the cause of death i.e., bruises, lacerations, or any marks on the skin. Once the external examination was finished they cut the torso open and began to extract the organs and other vital tissues much like they were doing when we first walked in the room.

At this point, we left the autopsy to go meet with Dr. Emily Craig. Dr. Craig is Kentucky’s only forensic anthropologist and one of the few forensic anthropologists in the country. Whenever human remains are found and there are no identifying characteristics, Dr. Craig is called in to make a positive identification of the person. She does this by using such methods as facial reconstruction, DNA analysis, or looking up dental records among other techniques. Because of her specialization, Dr. Craig has been called into disasters such as 9/11 and the 1993 fire in Waco, TX to identify remains.

Dr. Craig explains how to identify remains

The most fascinating part of Dr. Craig’s job is trying to identify a skeleton or a group of remains. By looking at the bones she can determine the race and sex of the person. She can then compare what she has found to the missing persons list and eliminate several people that don’t match the profile of the skeleton. Once she has done this she comes away with half a dozen or so names to begin investigating. It was amazing to see how much information Dr. Craig could extract from such little remains and still have a good lead on making a positive identification.

The interns in front of the Medical Examiner's Office

Overall, the autopsy was one of the more fascinating experiences we have had during this internship. It’s not everyday that people are allowed to view an autopsy and we all came away with a very enlightened perspective of the human body and the medical professionals that deal with death every day. The experience was very rewarding and I know we all had enjoyed it.

 

Interviewing the Medical Examiner
by Katherine Fitzpatrick

After viewing the live autopsies, Emily, Brandon, and I met with Ray and the state’s Associate Chief Medical Examiner, Dr. John C. Hunsaker, to discuss an upcoming murder trial. We began by viewing pictures and diagrams of a gun-shot victim’s autopsy and asked Dr. Hunsaker what he was able to conclude from the record as to the nature and cause of death. The doctor explained how body dies and took our questions as to how this victim reacted to the injury and whether any other procedures could have been used to save him. An autopsy report can be critical evidence in a murder trial to show that the defendant actually caused the victim’s death. Because Dr. Hunsaker has both law and medical degrees, he is an especially valuable witness to the state. As in this case, Dr. Hunsaker is able to evaluate an autopsy for valuable medical findings and then condense that information into a report that the jury finds helpful.

REPORT NO. 24
The Fastest Six Minutes on the Radio

by Brittany Blackburn

“Five percent of the criminals commit 80% of the crimes!” Listeners of Clear Channel Radio are accustomed to hearing Ray Larson repeat this statement throughout the radio program titled “In Touch.”

On one particular morning, however, I arrived at the office and was informed that I, along with Beth Caudill, Brandon Faulkner, and Blake Nolan would be visiting WLAP-AM to tape the weekly program. We were driven by Ray to the Clear Channel headquarters and entered the building anticipating what we would be discussing so early in the morning. After being greeted by Officer Don, a local radio personality and police officer, we found our way to the recording studio to adjust our microphones and familiarize ourselves with the studio setting.

Brittany and Officer Don

Following brief introductions, the radio show was underway! Ray introduced us on the air and announced that every intern works for about 35 hours per week for about 18 cents and hour, all of which goes to pay for our parking. Officer Don asked us about our favorite outings and each intern explained the daily work we perform. Because of my familiarity with the domestic violence sector of the criminal justice system, I discussed the weekly domestic violence meetings used by our prosecutors to complete the investigation process for each domestic violence case presented to our office.

Brittany, Beth, Brandon, and Blake discuss their internshipexperiences on air

My experience with the radio program was fantastic. Addressing the public via radio allows all citizens to get an inside view of the criminal justice system. Ray also provides the web address for his office, www.lexingtonprosecutor.com, in every segment so that the public can really see what is going on in the Lexington area and throughout the country.

REPORT NO. 25
Coordinating between Police and Prosecutors

by Blake Nolan

Several times throughout the summer, the interns had the opportunity to sit in on a meetings between police officers, detectives, forensic technicians, and Commonwealth’s Attorneys in an effort to better coordinate and communicate with each other on some of the high-profile cases in Lexington.

One particular meeting began with the patrol officers describing their experience as the first ones to arrive at the scene of the crime. These are the officers responsible for setting up the crime scene and talking with witnesses in order to discover what events actually took place and gather key information. The information these officers receive is vital to building a case against a future defendant and it is absolutely imperative that all information be documented and given to the prosecutors. This meeting allowed the prosecutors and police to communicate more effectively and work more efficiently at prosecuting criminals.

After the patrol officers presented the facts of the case and all relevant information, the forensic technicians discussed the evidence they had gathered at the crime scene. These technicians are responsible for photographing and filming the crime scene as well as gathering any evidence that they may find. These photographs and videotapes are very important to prosecutors as they try to piece together a crime scene and also to give a better visual presentation to a jury during the trial. The prosecutors laid out exactly what additional investigative steps were needed to be taken by the police in order to strengthen the case.

Once the prosecutors were briefed on the facts of the case, relevant information, and the evidence gathered by the forensic technicians, it was time for them to come up with a strategy on how to prosecute the defendants. The prosecutors wanted to make sure they can get the best possible conviction for these crimes and the end of the meeting discussed how to go about getting that conviction.

Overall the meeting was a huge success. It was excellent to see law enforcement and Commonwealth’s Attorneys working so closely together in order to build strong cases against these criminals. Since this was such a success, Mr. Larson plans on continuing them in the future for most all high-profile cases right as they begin.

REPORT NO. 26
The Property and Evidence Room

by Emily Wessel

On Thursday, July 13, Brandon, Katherine, and I accompanied Ray and Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Lou Anna Red Corn to the Lexington Division of Police. We entered the Property and Evidence area, where we were given access to the many bags containing evidence from a homicide case set for trial in the upcoming month. With the help of a staff member, we were able to view items taken from the crime scene, hospital, medical examiner’s office, and the defendant’s home. Throughout this process, we had to be extremely careful when handling all evidence. If a bag was opened, the dated tape from the original seal had to be broken. Subsequently, each time a bag was closed for the second time, a new date and signature had to be applied.

We confirmed that all items listed on our report from the detectives were accounted for, and then took pictures of some of the evidence, documenting bullet holes in a victim’s bloody t-shirt, as well as a victim’s broken glasses. The evidence will be available during the trial as well, as the police will deliver it to the courthouse on the day the trial begins.

Katherine re-seals a bag of evidence

Our time at Property and Evidence was extremely interesting. We were able to get an inside look at the organized way in which evidence is stored, and gained a greater appreciation for the amount of effort exerted by detectives to ensure that such evidence is secured.

REPORT NO. 27
Summer Internship Summary

by Todd Greer

This summer has been an amazing one for all of the interns. We learned a tremendous amount about the criminal justice system and were able to participate with prosecutors in every stage of the process. Here is what the interns had to say about their experiences this summer:

 

Beth Caudill
This internship has been a great experience for me. I have had the chance to experience many things, meet many people, and learn a lot about the criminal justice system. Some of our activities, like the autopsy and the police ride-along, have been adventures that I will never forget. I also enjoyed working with Ray on the radio shows, and becoming so comfortable with updating the website. I feel very privileged to have been able to participate in the summer internship program and I am looking forward to applying this knowledge in law school.

Brandon Faulkner
Spending the summer interning in the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office has been a wonderful learning experience. Aside from learning what the day-to-day responsibilities of a prosecutor are, I have had the opportunity to work on several murder cases. From doing inventories of ‘Scrub-a-Truck’ tapes for Traci to drafting responses to be filed with the court for Ray and Lou Anna, the summer has provided me with valuable insight into all phases of a criminal trial. I enjoyed my time here at the office so much that I am planning on returning in the Fall to participate in the third-year internship program. I’d especially like to thank Traci and Cindy, they were both great prosecutors to work under and always assigned me interesting projects. See you all soon!!

Alex Gibson
This summer has been a very exciting and rewarding one. I have learned more than I ever thought possible in a three month period. One of the most memorable experiences of the internship was being able to participate in the Shane Ragland trial. Working on such a high profile case can create many road blocks and learning how to confront these problems was a great opportunity to prepare me for my career. Overall, I have obtained many skills that I will carry with me through the remainder of law school and my work as an attorney.

Todd Greer
My experience at the Fayette County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office has been nothing short of amazing. On the very first day of the internship, the interns were taken into court to watch the prosecutors make their opening statements in a death-penalty trial. I quickly realized that I wanted to be a Prosecutor. The most memorable experience of my summer was working with Prosecutor Dan Laren on a burglary trial. I never dreamed that Dan would allow me to accompany him through every stage of the trial. I was given the opportunity to accompany him to investigate the crime scene, interview the arresting officer, discuss trial strategy, conduct Voir Dire, and to sit with him at the Prosecution’s table throughout the trial. Working with Dan on the burglary trial was an experience that I will never forget. I have to thank Ray Larson, Carolyn Miller, Brian Mattone, Dan Laren, and the rest of the Prosecutors for allowing me to take part in such an amazing internship.

Sarah Hale
The summer internship at Mr. Larson's office was my first experience in criminal law outside of a law school classroom. The activities in which I participated this summer and the work that I did helped me to see criminal law as more than just words written in a casebook. I saw criminal law at all its stages. From crime scenes and autopsies to sentencing and appeal, I was given the opportunity to follow along as cases worked their way through the Kentucky justice system. Although visiting crime scenes and riding along with police officers and detectives was fun, my most rewarding and educational experiences came from helping attorneys prepare for trial. Researching, writing memos, talking strategy and then seeing it all come together at hearings and trials was extremely exciting and satisfying. As I leave this internship to return to my second year of law school I feel that these experiences will benefit me not only in my remaining two years of law school but also in my future career. I have seen what criminal justice looks like from the inside and that view will remain with me throughout my legal career.

Sara Jennings
My internship with this office has been filled with many new experiences and emotions this summer. I have learned things that have been exciting, scary, interesting and different all at the same time. My most memorable experience was the day I spent with a detective. I read and prepared case files all summer long, but I never got a true taste of the crimes I read about until I spent the day with the detective. As I arrived at a suicide crime scene to collect evidence with the forensics unit, I was unsure how seeing my first dead body would affect me. I quickly realized what these men and women have to cope with on a day-to-day basis. My respect for the police department, attorneys and all other individuals involved in a criminal case increased tremendously. This summer has been an opportunity that I have been changed for the better from and will never forget.

Chris Keller
This summer has been a very exciting and rewarding experience. Not only was I able to participate with felony prosecutions throughout every stage of a criminal case, but I was also given opportunities that I am sure that I would never have had otherwise, such as viewing an autopsy, spending a day with a detective, touring the various detention centers, and shooting guns at the police firing range. Working for the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office was an experience that I will never forget. It was truly a dream come true.

Blake Nolan
The summer internship has proven to be one of the most exciting and educational experiences of my life. I particularly liked going to the police firing range and learning about various weapons and ballistic information. My favorite part was actually getting to fire a handgun, shotgun, and a rifle. I am grateful to Ray Larson and all of the prosecutors in the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for giving me such a great opportunity. I have learned so much this summer and have enjoyed every minute of it.

Michelle Peyton
I am grateful that I had the opportunity to intern for the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office this summer. All of my experiences, from the tour of the Juvenile Detention Center to the Community Prosecution training, have truly been wonderful. The internship has absolutely exceeded all expectations I had and it has made my summer very rewarding. Not only have I enjoyed the tours, preparation for trial, and attending Motion Hour, but I am also appreciative of the opportunity I had to work with the prosecutors and other interns. Overall, the internship has been a great experience that I will take with me for years to come.

Megan Thompson
Interning with the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office has always been an inspiration of mine. As a freshman in college, I knew that I wanted to go to law school but did not know which type of law interested me. I distinctly remember doing an internet search on prosecution and finding my way to the Fayette Commonwealth’s Attorney’s website. I quickly became interested and applied for Ray’s summer internship. Words cannot express how much information and knowledge I have acquired throughout the duration of this internship. It has been one of the most beneficial experiences of my academic career and I am now eager to attend law school. I will always remember my time at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office and that one day I work as a prosecutor.

Emily Wessel
This summer has been the best learning experience I have ever had. The Internship Program was so organized, and I was constantly surprised by how much exposure I had to the criminal justice process. Specifically, I am so lucky to have worked on a murder trial, written a response to a motion, and researched a wide array of interesting issues. I cannot express how grateful I am to have been a part of this, and I want to thank Ray, Kimberly, Lou Anna, Rami, and all the Assistant D.A.s for teaching and inspiring us.
 

We would all like to thank Ray Larson and his staff for an amazing summer. This internship has given each of us a greater knowledge of the criminal justice system. Not only have we learned a lot, but we have gained friends in the process. Each one of us will take away positive memories from this internship. This summer has truly been amazing and one that we will never forget.