Sheriff Kathy Witt has served the Lexington criminal justice system since 1983, joining the Office of the Fayette County Sheriff in 1985 and winning election as Lexington’s first female Sheriff in 1998. Today she is one of only 3% of female sheriffs to hold this office in our nation. A Commonwealth of Kentucky Certified Peace Officer, she has been instrumental in creating, managing and enforcing numerous offender accountability, community resource and educational programs that have made a lasting impact on the Lexington community.
After serving in every division and at every rank within the Office of the Fayette County Sheriff, Kathy H. Witt made history as Lexington’s first and only female Sheriff. Sheriff Kathy Witt continues to strengthen the safety net for all of Lexington, specifically through her work with victims of domestic and sexual violence, survivors of crime, justice involved youth and vulnerable adults. Sheriff Kathy Witt is committed to effective law enforcement, empowering a vibrant workforce and a compassionate presence in our community. As a valued community partner and leader in Lexington, statewide and across the nation, Sheriff Witt leads with humility, mercy, justice, and integrity.
A family committed to public service
Sheriff Kathy Witt and her husband Elmer are committed to a life of public service in Lexington. Major Elmer Witt retired from the Lexington Fire Department after 28 years of service and Sheriff Kathy Witt continues to serve Lexington’s criminal justice community.
They have two children, Morgan and Lucas, a son-in-law, Andrew, and a daughter-in-law, Lyndsey. They are also blessed with five grandchildren. Together, the Witt family is committed to serving the well-being of Lexington and the Commonwealth and contributing to the betterment of our community.
A Central Kentucky native, Sheriff Kathy Witt and her family are longtime members of Southland Christian Church. Her deep, personal faith and her favorite scripture found in Micah 6:8 shape the legacy of service she is building.
“Daily, I am humbled to serve my community as I walk with the diverse team at the Office of the Fayette County Sheriff. Doing good for others is not an obligation, but a joy and will forever be the inspiration for my journey to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with my God and my community.”
— Sheriff Kathy Witt, on Micah 6:8
Join the Vision
Respected Nationally. Effective Locally.
Add your name to a movement rooted in service. Request a yard sign, make calls, knock on doors, or host an event — every hand helps carry Fayette County forward.
Prefer to talk? Call 859-559-9898 to volunteer.