"We will begin transitioning state and local law enforcement agencies from a manhunt to a larger presence in this community and the surrounding communities," Gov. Andy Beshear explained.
The governor joined local, state, and federal agencies this afternoon to announce the reallocation of resources in the ongoing search for 32-year-old Joseph Couch. Beshear said the manhunt will continue in the Daniel Boone National Forest through the monitoring of cameras and the use of aircraft.
"The deployment of a lot of cameras should help us detect movement within the forest if he is still there. Aircraft, when available, will still be used," Beshear said. "It's just changing the way we're going about that piece and putting more of our sworn personnel, uniformed law enforcement in the community, so that if he's still out there, he knows he shouldn't come anywhere near our people because these fine law enforcement officers are ready.
Officials have received more than 400 tips from the public and say a majority are "outside of the National Forest."
Another reason for the shift in their search plans: Schools in Laurel County return to in person learning today with an increased police presence on campuses, bus routes, and after-school activities.
The district reports a 90% attendance rate.
