Former sheriff’s deputy named New Haven Chief of Police

A former Nelson County Sheriff’s deputy who was terminated last fall has been hired as New Haven’s chief of police.

Kenny “K.C.” Holbert was fired Aug. 31, 2007, after it was discovered that he used a department credit card for personal reasons. According to the statement made at the time of his termination, Nelson County Sheriff Mike Newton said a paper trail indicated Holbert had used the card at least 14 times for his personal vehicle.

According to Nelson County District Court records dated Sept. 18, 2008, Holbert pleaded guilty to one count of theft by unlawful taking of less than $300. The recommendation of County Attorney John Kelley at that time was for Holbert to serve 30 days in Nelson County Jail with two years probation and conditions. The record shows that Holbert paid restitution and 10 counts were dismissed.

A police committee made up of New Haven commissioners Bob Johnson and Michael Wolf and resident Jerry Nevitt recommended that the Board of Commissioners hire Holbert as the city’s Chief of Police at a regular meeting Thursday.

The committee screened 21 applications and interviewed five candidates for the position. Johnson said the committee wanted somebody who was “already trained and ready to go.”

Holbert specialized in crime-scene investigation and accident reconstruction during his time as a sheriff’s deputy.

Johnson said Holbert’s issues are resolved and he is a “good police officer.” His “top education” and qualifications are what led the committee to their recommendation of Holbert.

The board unanimously voted to hire Holbert, with the exception of Michael Wolf, who was absent from the meeting.