Get the Facts: How does Kentucky's search warrant process work now that it's fully digital?

LOUISVILLE, Ky. —

Obtaining a search warrant in Kentucky is easier for law enforcement agencies now that the statewide rollout of the electronic system is complete.

The traditional paper and in-person process to authorize the search of a property is now entirely digital.

“That is not to say that the judge and the officer could not still have contact via telephone or something of that nature if that is needed,” said Malissa Carman-Goode, program manager for the Administrative Office of the Courts.

The eSearch Warrant Program, first piloted in several Kentucky counties back in 2022, replaces face-to-face interaction.

Carman-Goode compares its simplicity to TurboTax.

How it works is that authorities create their application, upload evidence such as photos, and track the process online.