Object Record
Images
Metadata
Object Name |
Patch, Law Enforcement |
Catalog Number |
2022.28.26 |
Material(s) |
Cloth |
Dimensions |
H-4 W-4 inches |
Description |
A brown. grey, and gold law enforcement patch in the shape of a star. "Sheriff Dept." and "Pulaski County" are embroidered on gold banners that surround the star. In the center there are the two figures that feature on the Kentucky state flag along with the words "Comm. of Kentucky." |
Notes |
This patch belonged to Samuel Wilson Catron (1953-2003). Sam wanted to follow in his father Harold's footsteps and work in law enforcement. He worked as a Pulaski County Deputy Sheriff for seven years before becoming Ferguson's Chief of Police in 1982. In 1985, Sam resigned to campaign for Pulaski County Sheriff. Elected in 1985, Sam was the youngest Sheriff elected in the history of Pulaski County. As sheriff, Sam was instrumental in upgrading the department's technology, integrating the use of police dogs, and becoming a licensed pilot and securing a helicopter for the department to assist with air surveillance. Sam regularly went to local schools and met with children to teach them about law enforcement, show them the police helicopter, and hand out junior deputy badges. Sam held the role of sheriff through four re-elections and was running for a fifth when he was assassinated at a campaign event in 2002. Three people were found guilty of conspiracy to commit murder, including a rival opponent and well-known drug dealer. Sam had been well-known as an enemy of drug-traffickers during his tenure. Sam was wearing a bullet-proof vest at the time of his death as his father, Harold, died from the result of a failed assassination attempt. Donated by Sam's sister, Nancy. |
Collection |
Nancy Catron Collection |
People |
Catron, Samuel W. |
Subjects |
Law enforcement Law enforcement officers Police Sheriffs |
Search Terms |
Ferguson (Ky.) Pulaski County (Ky.) |