National Police Week
Fleming County Sheriff's Office
PURSUIT THROUGH MULTIPLE COUNTIES ENDS IN LEWIS – ONE ARRESTED On Saturday,…
PURSUIT THROUGH MULTIPLE COUNTIES ENDS IN LEWIS – ONE ARRESTED
On Saturday, May 10th, 2025, at approximately 3:30 AM, law enforcement agencies in Mason County attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a white Chevrolet Avalanche. The driver failed to stop, and a pursuit ensued.
The vehicle entered Fleming County and was observed to be driving at speeds exceeding 26 miles per hour over the posted speed limit. Deputies pursued the vehicle as it traveled through downtown Flemingsburg, up Mockingbird Hill, then turned back toward Flemingsburg and continued around the bypass heading toward Lewis County.
While still in Fleming County and approaching the Lewis County line, the driver intentionally swerved and struck a Vanceburg Police Department cruiser that was assisting near the area.
The pursuit continued into Lewis County on Foxport Road (KY 344) before the vehicle crashed near the intersection of KY 559. The driver, identified as Nicole Bainter, was taken into custody after a brief struggle and was charged with:
• Disregarding a traffic control device
• Speeding 26+ MPH over the limit
• Operating a motor vehicle under the influence (DUI)
• Driving on a DUI-suspended license
• Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree
• Assault 1st Degree
• Resisting Arrest
Deputy Cooper transported Bainter to Fleming County Hospital for evaluation. While on scene, she stated she was “just having some fun.” After being cleared by medical staff, she was lodged in the Mason County Detention Center.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Please join us in welcoming Deputy Scottie Prater to the Fleming County Sheriff’s Office!
Please join us in welcoming Deputy Scottie Prater to the Fleming County Sheriff’s Office!
Deputy Prater joins us as a lateral transfer from the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office. He resides in Fleming County with his wife Cheyanna, daughter Kenasyn, and son Laine, and he is excited for the opportunity to serve the community his family calls home.
He was officially sworn in on Monday, May 5th, by Fleming County Attorney Monica Hill.
Deputy Prater graduated from the Department of Criminal Justice Training in September 2021, Class 519. During his training, he earned both the Most Improved PT/DT Award and the Fit for Duty Award, recognizing his determination and commitment to excellence.
While serving in Lewis County, Deputy Prater was a K-9 deputy, where he was instrumental in multiple narcotic seizures and arrests. His proactive enforcement work contributed significantly to drug interdiction efforts and public safety in the region. He was also awarded the Medal of Valor for his actions during a critical incident in the Laurel community of Lewis County and most recently received the 2024 DUI Award for his outstanding efforts in impaired driving enforcement.
“We’re proud to welcome Deputy Scottie Prater to our team,” said Sheriff Tim Smith. “He brings a strong work ethic, proven dedication, and valuable experience to our agency. I’m confident he’ll serve the people of Fleming County with integrity and commitment.”
Please join us in giving Deputy Prater a warm welcome as he begins this new chapter with us!
Reminder: Prom is Tomorrow!
Reminder: Prom is Tomorrow!
Prom night is tomorrow, so please be mindful of increased traffic, especially along Elizaville Road near the high school. Expect more vehicles and pedestrians in the area during the afternoon and evening hours.
Let’s all do our part to keep everyone safe and make it a great night for the students!
James Welch and Rex are an amazing team!!
James Welch and Rex are an amazing team!! We are very lucky to be able to do a meet and greet with Simons Middle School JAG students. Thank you Misty Gardner for giving us a little bit of time today to discuss the sheriff’s office.
Administrative Professionals Day Today we celebrate the hardworking and dedicated administrative professionals…
Administrative Professionals Day
Today we celebrate the hardworking and dedicated administrative professionals who keep everything organized and running smoothly. A special thank you to Kristi Bailey, our amazing bookkeeper and often the friendly voice you hear when you call, and to Ricky Hurst for the vital role he plays in keeping our office running strong. Your attention to detail, reliability, and behind-the-scenes support make a world of difference every single day. We appreciate you!
