By Abigail Roberts
A former Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy was sentenced today to three years in prison.
A sentencing hearing was held today at 1 p.m. at the Lincoln County Judicial Center.
While conducting a search of a residence in 2025, former Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy Ron Luster admitted that he removed his body camera, improperly removed a quantity of cash and put it in his pocket, then put his camera back on, according to court records.
“In February 2026, upon a tip from defense counsel in a trafficking investigation, the Kentucky State Police, with the full cooperation of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office began an inquiry into former deputy Luster’s conduct during the execution of a search warrant on March 29, 2025. Sheriff Hines placed Luster on administrative leave on February 4, 2026,” a press release states.
The Kentucky State Police – DESI East – presented their investigation to the Lincoln County Grand Jury on March 13, 2026. Luster was indicted on the previously stated charges. Hines fired Luster that same day.
Luster, 55, of Hustonville, pleaded guilty to all charges.
Commonwealth’s Attorney for Pulaski, Lincoln and Rockcastle Counties David L. Dalton recommended three years in prison.
Dalton said during Friday’s sentencing hearing, Luster’s defense asked for work release and probation. Dalton said he objected to all work release.
The judge – Hon. Kaelin G. Reed, 11th Circuit Judge Division 2 – sentenced Luster to three years in prison with no work release for the first 30 days. After the first 30 days, he will be allowed work release for 150 days. Luster will then be placed on probation.
The Commonwealth’s Attorney objected.
The Lincoln County Daily News has requested additional records and will have a follow up investigation of Friday’s sentencing next week.
