Leadership Bowling Green Explores Law & Justice in Action

Published Thursday, February 26, 2026

On February 11, 2026, the Leadership Bowling Green class spent a full day immersed in the leaders, partnerships, and processes that shape law and justice across Warren County. Law & Justice Day provided a powerful look at the collaboration required to protect, serve, and strengthen our community.

The day began at the Warren County Justice Center, where the class gathered for a Justice System Attorneys Panel moderated by Carrie Jolly, Attorney with Kentucky Legal Aid. Panelists included:

Kori Beck Bumgarner, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Eighth Judicial Circuit
Amy Hale Chandler, Warren County Attorney
Kayla Fugate, Directing Attorney, Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy
Kyle Bumgarner, Assistant United States Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

The discussion offered insight into the roles, responsibilities, and ethical considerations shaping the justice system at the local, state, and federal levels. Participants then remained at the Warren County Justice Center to observe District Court proceedings with Judge Kim Geoghegan, gaining firsthand exposure to courtroom operations and the administration of justice.

Inside the System

The class toured the Warren County Regional Jail, where Stephen Harmon, Jailer, provided an inside look at operations, safety protocols, and rehabilitation efforts.

Lunch was generously provided by Bell, Orr, Ayers & Moore PSC before the group reconvened at the Bowling Green Police Department Community Room.

A multi-agency Law Enforcement Panel — featuring representatives from Bowling Green Police Department, Kentucky State Police, WKU Police, and the Drug Task Force — was moderated by Captain Jonathan Vickous, Bowling Green Police Department, and Class of 2024 Bart Haggerman Award.

Specialized Units in Action

The afternoon sessions offered an in-depth look at specialized units within the Bowling Green Police Department. Participants rotated through interactive presentations including:

K-9 demonstrations
Critical Response Team & Hostage Negotiations
Community Engagement & Dispatch
Detective and Advanced Crime Scene Investigations

These sessions highlighted the coordination, training, and strategic response required to address evolving public safety challenges.

The day concluded with class reflection led by Kelsey Crowe and an after-hours gathering at White Squirrel Brewery, providing time to process the experience and strengthen class connections.

Through candid conversations and immersive experiences, the Leadership Bowling Green Class of 2025–2026 gained a deeper understanding of the systems that protect our community and the professionals who dedicate their careers to that mission.

Thank You to Our Alumni Day Chairs