I’m AJ Lewis—a dedicated law enforcement professional, husband, and father who is deeply invested in the well-being and future of Nelson County. Growing up in this community, I was profoundly influenced by my father’s example. He served as a single father while proudly working for the Bardstown Police Department from 1989 until his retirement in 2016. Before that, he served our country as a U.S. Marine and National Guardsman. Watching him balance the demands of law enforcement and family with unwavering integrity and strength inspired me to follow in his footsteps.

After graduating from Bardstown High School in 2007, I pursued my passion for public service by completing my training at the Department of Criminal Justice Training (DOCJT) in July 2012. That same year, I graduated from the Academy of Police Supervision (Sergeant School), Class of 49, further preparing me for leadership roles in law enforcement.

My career began in 2011 as a sworn officer with the Springfield Police Department, where I rose to the rank of Sergeant before serving with the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office from 2013 until 2021. Since 2021, I have proudly served with the Bardstown Police Department.

The lessons I learned from my father—about fairness, accountability, and serving with compassion—are the foundation of how I approach this work every day. I have worked hard to build my own reputation grounded in these attributes, as well as integrity and respect -all of which are extremely important to me.

I’m deeply connected to Nelson County—not just professionally, but personally. My wife, Erin, is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Director of Therapeutic Services, here in Bardstown at Astra Behavioral Health. She also serves on the Board of Directors at the Nelson County Community Clinic, and the FRYSC Advisory Board’s at BPS and BEC. Together, we’re raising three incredible children—Rowan, 13; Harper, 8; and Adrian III, 7—who remind me daily why building a safe, supportive community matters so much.

If honored to serve as your next Sheriff, I will bring a leadership style that’s transparent, accountable, and community-focused. I believe in working hand in hand with fellow officers, local leaders, business owners, and residents to create a county where everyone feels safe, valued, and heard. My vision is clear: to build on the trust we’ve earned, strengthen our community partnerships, and implement proactive strategies that protect and uplift every family in Nelson County.

This isn’t just a campaign—it’s a commitment to the place I love and the people I’m proud to serve. Together, we can make Nelson County safer, stronger, and more united than ever.