LANCASTER, Ky. — Lancaster Police Department Chief Ryan Hughes has been placed on administrative leave after being cited for driving under the influence (DUI) and criminal mischief following a single-vehicle crash that resulted in his vehicle catching fire, according to court records and a statement released by city officials.
Incident Overview
According to court records, officers with the Somerset Police Department responded to a reported single-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 27 at approximately 9:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17.
A 911 caller reportedly advised dispatch that they had stopped to assist the driver from a burning vehicle and believed the driver smelled of alcohol.
The driver was later identified as Lancaster Police Chief Ryan Hughes.
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Police Investigation
According to the citation and court records:
- Responding officers reported observing glossy, bloodshot eyes and detecting the odor of an alcoholic beverage on Hughes’ breath.
- Police reported that Hughes stated he had consumed “a few drinks” approximately one hour before the crash.
- After consulting with an attorney, Hughes reportedly declined to submit to a blood test until officers obtained a search warrant.
- The crash allegedly caused more than $500 in damage to a state highway right-of-way fence.
The citing officer wrote in court records that, because Hughes required additional medical treatment, the decision was made to issue a citation rather than place him under arrest at the scene in order to avoid delaying necessary medical care.
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Charges
According to court records, Hughes was cited on allegations including:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Criminal Mischief
The filing of criminal charges or citations is an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Mayor Announces Administrative Leave
On Wednesday morning, Lancaster Mayor Michael Gaffney announced that Hughes had been placed on administrative leave while the city conducts its review.
In a public statement, Gaffney said:
“My office is aware of an off-duty accident Chief Ryan Hughes was involved in Friday evening around 9 pm. This one-vehicle accident resulted in some non-life-threatening injuries as well as Chief Hughes being charged with a DUI and Criminal Mischief.”
The mayor further stated:
“Chief Hughes has been placed on Administrative Leave as we investigate the accident and gather all pertinent information. We take these matters seriously and will follow all policy and procedures as well as the law to ensure a thorough, fair, and just process for all parties.”
Current Status
As of this writing:
- Chief Ryan Hughes has been placed on administrative leave.
- The cited criminal charges remain pending in court.
- The City of Lancaster has stated it is conducting an administrative review.
- No additional disciplinary decisions have been publicly announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Chief Hughes on duty at the time of the crash?
According to Mayor Michael Gaffney’s statement, the crash occurred while Hughes was off duty.
Why was Hughes cited instead of arrested?
According to the citing officer, Hughes required additional medical treatment following the crash. The officer wrote that issuing a citation rather than making an immediate custodial arrest avoided delaying medical care.
Has Hughes been convicted?
No. Court proceedings remain pending. The charges are allegations, and Hughes is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Is the city conducting its own investigation?
Yes. The City of Lancaster has stated that Hughes was placed on administrative leave while officials gather information and conduct an administrative review consistent with department policy and applicable law.
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