The Kentucky State Police, Post 7 in Richmond continues the investigation into an officer-involved shooting that occurred on October 22, 2022 in Jessamine County.
The preliminary investigation conducted by KSP indicates that officers with the Nicholasville Police Department were dispatched to a residence in reference to a suicidal subject in possession of a firearm. The individual was identified as Desman Laduke, a 22 year-old male from Nicholasville. Officers responded to the scene and requested the Crisis Negotiation Team to respond, as well as their Special Response Team.
After several hours of attempted negotiations with Mr. Laduke, he brandished two firearms while inside the residence in front of a bedroom window. Despite repeated loud verbal commands by officers to drop the weapons, Mr. Laduke pointed the firearms in the direction of the officers. Officer Joseph Horton recognized the immediate danger and fired his agency-issued firearm, striking Mr. Laduke once. Emergency medical services were on scene and attempted life saving measures. Mr. Laduke was transported to the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. No officers or other members of the community were injured during this incident.
The Investigation remains ongoing by the Kentucky State Police Post 7. In accordance with the Nicholasville Police Department’s policies and procedures, Officer Horton has been placed on administrative leave. Officer Horton is an 8 year veteran of the Department, currently assigned to patrol.
KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local law enforcement agencies. KSP is committed to being transparent while ensuring the integrity of the investigation. To protect the integrity of ongoing investigations, it is KSP standard operating procedure to not release any further details until the investigation has been completed. Timelines to complete investigations vary based on the complexity of the case.
