Daviess County Attorney John Burlew has filed for re-election, citing progress in office operations, victim advocacy, and public safety since first being elected in 2022.
Burlew, 46, a Republican, said his decision to seek another term stems from a desire to continue building on recent accomplishments.
“When I ran in 2022, I promised to strengthen our office, support victims, and ensure accountability in the justice system,” Burlew said. “We’ve delivered on those promises and have built an office that’s more efficient, more professional, and more responsive to the people of Daviess County.”
Since taking office, Burlew has fully staffed all assistant county attorney positions and secured pay increases to make those roles more competitive. The office now includes seven prosecutors.
In 2024, his office secured state funding for a victim advocate position in the Criminal Division, ensuring that victims receive personal support and consistent communication throughout court proceedings. This year, Burlew added a county detective position — a certified police officer who assists prosecutors with investigations, trial preparation, and discovery — calling it “invaluable” in improving efficiency and case outcomes.
Burlew said his office handled more than 600 DUI cases in 2024, with most resulting in convictions. Burlew also implemented policies to ensure accountability for those charged with fleeing or evading police, assaulting officers, or resisting arrest. Prosecutors under his direction typically do not agree to bond reductions for such offenses at first appearances, Burlew said.
He said the office has also ramped up efforts to prosecute chronic delinquent child support obligors, leading to about 35 arrests and increased back payments to families. Under Burlew’s leadership, the Child Support Division ranks among the top 20 of Kentucky’s 120 counties in establishing paternity and securing support orders.
A lifelong Owensboro resident, Burlew graduated from Owensboro High School in 1998 and later served in the U.S. Army’s 20th and 3rd Special Forces Groups. He deployed to Afghanistan following the 9/11 attacks and earned the Bronze Star Medal for Valor.
After returning home, Burlew earned his law degree from the University of Kentucky and has since dedicated his career to public service. He is a member of the American Legion Post 9 and VFW Post 696.
“Owensboro is home,” Burlew said. “We’ve made real progress, but there’s still more work to do. I’m running for re-election to continue that progress and to keep putting victims, families, and community safety first.”
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