When Tyler Thomas first embraced and entered the world of law enforcement, he wasn’t convinced he’d stay in Trigg County.
Like all young lads who graduate as a Wildcat, and later the police academy, there’s early hope of what feels like bigger, better things.
The grass, however, isn’t always greener.
His career over the last decade-plus led to a big moment Tuesday night at the Cadiz City Council meeting, when Mayor Todd King, his wife Debra and his infant daughter swore in and officially pinned him as the city’s next police chief.
At 32 years old, and soon-to-be 33, Thomas is one of the youngest ever to assume to role — joining the likes of Hollis Alexander in the under-35 category.
In July 2014, Thomas moved into the Cadiz Police Department after spending his first two years at the Trigg County Sheriff’s Office under Ray Burnam.
It filled the position once held by Randy Clark, bringing the CPD force back to full strength at 10 officers.
Each passing year, Thomas said he’s had more and more reason to stay. Family. Friends. And this office.
He’s been the interim for the last few months, but now the duties are his to fulfill.
And, in the immediacy, this includes finding two more agents — while organizing the team around the Trigg County Schools and their two semesters requiring resource officers.
The third floor of Cadiz City Hall was packed with proud family, friends and co-workers Tuesday night, but one man was missing.
His father, Christopher, which King emotionally noted. Some in the gallery wept.
Among the many to vet Thomas for this position: former Police Chief and retiree Duncan Wiggins — who was also celebrated Tuesday night for his years of service to the community.
A passing of the torch, Wiggins was also surprised when King handed him full honors for a Kentucky Colonel.
A native of California with a military background, he said the Commonwealth’s top honor will now proudly hang on his home wall.
