2026 Kentucky General Election

Michele Shryock RANKIN

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Buket Urgen

GENERAL ELECTION HELD ON
11/8/2022

JAILER - (Vote for One)
Choice Party Absentee Voting Early Voting Election Day Voting Total
Michele Shryock RANKIN DEM 28 100.00% 48 100.00% 274 100.00% 350 100.00%

Count_PrecinctResults (Woodford County 2022 Election Reports General Recaps)

Michele Shryock Rankin was elected Woodford Jailer in 2022.

As of October 8, 2026, Michele Shryock RANKIN’s website did not contain information on this issue.

Budget

Emphasizes mental-health training for jail staff, saying it can improve outcomes for officers and inmates.

Jailer Michele Rankin, standing center left, with Major Charlina Foster and Lieutenant John Smith, recently attended a training session on mental health awareness for law enforcement officers. The training was held at the local community center and focused on recognizing signs of mental health issues and how to effectively respond to individuals in crisis. Rankin emphasized the importance of this training for jail staff, stating that understanding mental health can lead to better outcomes for both officers and inmates. The session included role-playing scenarios and discussions on best practices for handling mental health emergencies.

Facebook post — The Woodford Sun

Implemented rehabilitation programs emphasizing education, job training, and mental-health support to reduce recidivism and help inmates reintegrate.

Michele Rankin, the Woodford County Jailer, has been recognized for her efforts in improving the jail system and making a positive impact on the community. Since taking office, she has implemented several programs aimed at rehabilitation and reducing recidivism rates among inmates. Rankin believes in treating inmates with dignity and respect, providing them with the tools they need to reintegrate into society successfully.

Facebook post — Woodford County KY

Under her leadership, the jail has seen a decrease in repeat offenders, and many former inmates have credited the programs for helping them turn their lives around. Rankin's approach emphasizes education, job training, and mental health support, which are crucial for breaking the cycle of incarceration.

Changed jail intake procedures during COVID-19 to take each new arrestee's temperature.

Jailer Michele Rankin says it's apart of an effort to keep inmates and staffers safe from COVID-19. "We are really close quarters in here. It's kind of like a nursing home. Inmates can't go anywhere," Rankin said. "With that, we've also changed our intake protocol. When an inmate comes in as a new arrest, we're going to take their temperature."

Woodford County Detention Center joins list of jails suspending visitation

Said peer support from former inmates is valuable for people who are incarcerated.

Rankin knows Hager from his days as an inmate. Now, he returns to the Woodford County Detention Center to inspire current inmates that they can live more promising and fulfilling lives. "They can relate to him and that's huge, to have someone you can relate to when you're behind bars," Rankin said.

Former Woodford Co. inmate visits jail to inspire others

Jail Management

Administration

Sean WILLIAMS

- The jailer is responsible for the county jail and all of the people in it, including managing deputies and other staff. They are responsible for keeping the jail up to health and safety standards and must provide necessary health care to those who cannot pay.
- The jailer is also the jail's record keeper and responsible for bail bonds. They 
- In some counties, the jailer acts as a bailiff in the court system or maintains and operates county buildings.manage prisoners’ work or educational release and community service.
- This position has a maximum annual salary based on the county and jail operation size. The current maximum values range from about $85,000 to $154,400. 