A Northern Kentucky police officer's use of deadly force has been deemed justified following a violent altercation that resulted in the death of a 30-year-old man. Kenton County Commonwealth’s Attorney Rob Sanders announced that an investigation by the Kentucky State Police found no grounds to prosecute Officer Ethan Livingood in the death of Garren Patty of Ludlow.

The incident, which occurred on July 9th, began with a report of a suspicious individual. Officer Livingood encountered Patty, and within a minute, Patty reportedly charged at the officer and initiated a physical assault. Despite deploying his taser twice, Officer Livingood was unable to subdue Patty, who continued the attack, forcing the officer to the ground and attempting to seize his firearm. In response to the escalating threat, Officer Livingood discharged his weapon, fatally wounding Patty.

Commonwealth’s Attorney Sanders emphasized that the officer's actions were justified given the circumstances. "Ethan Livingood was undoubtedly justified in his use of force and self-defense. Given Patty’s repeated blows to Livingood’s head and his attempt to take the officer’s handgun, the use of deadly physical force was both reasonable and justified," Sanders stated.