SCC to Somerset PD: Detective Andrew Wilson inspires the next generation

Published on Mar 20, 2026

Andrew Wilson, a Somerset native, has dedicated his life to serving his community through law enforcement. His passion for policing was sparked in fourth grade when a local officer, Jeff Sears, helped him and his single mother recover his stolen bicycle—a formative experience that set him on his path.

As he grew up, police officers continued to influence Wilson’s life. His best friend’s father served on the force, and local officers often shared compelling stories with him at the city gym, fueling his interest in law enforcement.

Police officers soon became more than background characters in his life; they illuminated a rewarding path and sense of purpose for Wilson. By the time he graduated from Somerset High School in 2007, Wilson had a clear vision for his future.

While working at the locally owned Sports Den, Wilson paid his way through Somerset Community College (SCC), enrolling in the criminal justice program. He fondly recalls the friendships and support he found at SCC, describing it as a second home during his busy college years. In May 2012, he graduated and, encouraged by his professors, entered the police academy and began his career with the Somerset Police Department.

"I never applied anywhere else. I wanted to serve the people of my community," Wilson recalls. "Somerset is home, and SCC showed me I could make a difference here. My instructors truly cared about our success, and the hands-on experience I gained made a real difference when I started my career."

Wilson’s career goals never swayed from his local police department.

After graduating from the Academy, Wilson began his law enforcement career as a patrolman at the Somerset Police Department. His talent for solving crimes led leadership to encourage him to specialize as a detective at SPD—a role he gladly accepted in 2021, assigned by retired Chief William Hunt.

"From an early age, I loved working on puzzles with my mother and was always drawn to solving problems," Wilson said. "Those experiences, along with my early impressions of law enforcement, inspired my career as a detective. I take pride in my investigations and strive to leave things better than I found them. My work reflects the education, training, and mentorship I’ve received, and I’m grateful to everyone who has supported and challenged me along the way."

"Helping train new officers is one of the most rewarding parts of my job," Wilson says. "I remember how much it meant when people at SCC and in the department took time to help me learn. Now, I get to pay that forward and help ensure SPD remains one of Kentucky’s premier law enforcement agencies."

Wilson is working to create paid internships at SPD for SCC students; a new initiative he hopes will inspire current and future criminal justice majors to pursue local careers and develop a passion for their community.

"Andrew exemplifies the kind of graduate we hope to inspire at SCC," says SCC Criminal Justice Coordinator Teresa Hinkle. "He brings heart and dedication to his work, and our students benefit from seeing someone who genuinely cares about his community."

Throughout his years at the Somerset Police Department, Wilson has developed a passion for preserving local law enforcement history, proudly displaying memorabilia above his desk.

He has also worked with Retired Chief William Hunt to spearhead “Shepherds Watch,” a unique regional program that expedites access to home security cameras, with owners’ permission, during investigations.

Law enforcement comes with challenges, including combating negative perceptions in some communities. Wilson feels fortunate to serve in Somerset, where he receives strong support from residents.

"The support I get from Somerset residents keeps me going," Wilson says. "Whenever I see a former SCC classmate or a neighbor downtown, it reminds me why I chose this path."

One of his newest community outreach programs, “Pop Patrol,” aims to break down barriers for the next generation. Local officers hand out free Popsicles to children, sparking conversations and building positive relationships with law enforcement.

Somerset Police Chief Josh Wesley highlighted the tremendous asset Wilson is to both the department and the community.

“Detective Andrew Wilson truly reflects the spirit of community policing. A SHS and SCC graduate, he has served our department in numerous roles, including patrolman, Field Training Officer, Hostage Negotiator, and now Detective in our Criminal Investigations Division. Beyond his investigative work, Det. Wilson has strengthened our community engagement through initiatives like the ‘Pop Patrol’ program, outreach to seniors, participation in job fairs, and leadership of our social media presence," Chief Wilson said. "He has also contributed to major projects, including the redesign of our Mobile Command Center and our department’s annual t-shirt program. His dedication, creativity, and deep love for this community make our department—and our city—stronger. This community is better because of his work and passion.”

To learn more about enrolling in the Criminal Justice Program at SCC, email the program coordinator. Teresa Hinkle at Teresa.hinkle@kctcs.edu.

To learn more about internship opportunities with SPD, call (606) 678-5176.

Learn more or sign up for SPD’s Shepherd’s watch program here.