Johnson County Schools, KY – Building on its commitment to student and staff safety, the Johnson County Board of Education is proud to announce the appointment of Mark Cantrell as the first Police Chief of the newly established Johnson County Schools Police Force.
With 30 years of combined law enforcement experience, Chief Cantrell brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the district. He served eight and a half years with the Paintsville City Police Department and 21 years with the Federal Bureau of Prisons. During his federal service, Chief Cantrell spent the last 18 years with the Special Investigative System, specializing in complex investigations.
Chief Cantrell graduated from the Kentucky Department of Criminal Justice Training in Richmond, KY, and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia. In addition to these certifications, he has completed extensive in-service training tailored to his various roles in law enforcement. He retired in March 2024 from USP Big Sandy, concluding a distinguished career marked by dedication to public safety.
Chief Cantrell shares a powerful vision for school safety:
“Safety and security don’t just happen; they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children—the most vulnerable citizens in our society—a life free of violence and fear.” — Nelson Mandela
Superintendent Thom Cochran expressed confidence in Chief Cantrell’s leadership: “Chief Cantrell’s extensive experience and deep commitment to community safety make him the perfect leader for our school police force. His proven ability to build meaningful, trusting relationships with students and staff alike is invaluable. Under his guidance, we will continue to cultivate a safe, supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to thrive without fear.”
The Johnson County Schools Police Force, created earlier this year, represents a vital step forward in ensuring the district’s safety priorities. Chief Cantrell will lead the force as it works collaboratively with local law enforcement partners and the school community to provide responsive, proactive safety measures tailored to the unique needs of Johnson County Schools.
For more information about the Johnson County Schools Police Force or to contact Chief Cantrell, please contact him at mark.cantrell@johnson.kyschools.us
or Matt Ratliff at matthew.ratliff@johnson.kyschools.us.