Kentucky Criminal Laws: Felony and Misdemeanor Classes, Theft, Self-Defense and Bail

Felonies are Class A through D. Unless otherwise provided by law, the authorized terms are: Class A — not less than 20 years nor more than 50 years, or life imprisonment; Class B — not less than 10 nor more than 20 years; Class C — not less than 5 nor more than 10 years; Class D — not less than 1 nor more than 5 years. Felony sentences are indeterminate (§ 532.060). Fines: except as otherwise provided for an offense defined outside the code, a person convicted of any felony shall be sentenced to pay a fine of not less than $1,000 and not greater than $10,000 or double his gain from the offense, whichever is greater; fines are not imposed on a person the court determines to be indigent (§ 534.030).

Class A misdemeanor — jail term not to exceed 12 months and a fine not to exceed $500; Class B misdemeanor — not to exceed 90 days and a fine not to exceed $250. Violation — a fine not to exceed $250 (an offense punishable by a fine only or other punishment other than death or imprisonment is deemed a violation, § 532.020(4)). Fines are not imposed on a person determined to be indigent.

Theft by unlawful taking is a Class B misdemeanor unless an exception applies. $500 or more but less than $1,000 — Class A misdemeanor. $1,000 or more but less than $10,000 — Class D felony. $10,000 or more but less than $1,000,000 — Class C felony. $1,000,000 or more but less than $10,000,000 — Class B felony. $10,000,000 or more — Class B felony (must serve at least 50% before probation or parole). Regardless of value, theft of a firearm is a Class D felony, and three or more Class A misdemeanor theft convictions within 5 years makes it a Class D felony. During a declared emergency, the charge is one level higher. Separate thefts within one year may be aggregated.

Kentucky has no duty to retreat. 'A person does not have a duty to retreat prior to the use of deadly physical force' (§ 503.050(4)). A person not engaged in an unlawful activity who is attacked in any other place where he or she has a right to be 'has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his or her ground and meet force with force, including deadly force,' if he or she reasonably believes it necessary to prevent death or great bodily harm to himself or herself or another or to prevent a felony involving the use of force (§ 503.055(3)). Deadly force in self-protection is justifiable only when the defendant believes it necessary to protect against death, serious physical injury, kidnapping, sexual intercourse compelled by force or threat, or a felony involving the use of force (§ 503.050(2)).

A person is presumed to have held a reasonable fear of imminent peril of death or great bodily harm when using deadly defensive force if the other person was unlawfully and forcibly entering (or had entered) a dwelling, residence, or occupied vehicle, or was removing or attempting to remove another person from it against that person's will, and the defender knew or had reason to believe this was occurring. The presumption does not apply if the person against whom force is used has a right to be there (owner, lessee, titleholder) and there is no domestic-violence protective injunction or no-contact pretrial order against that person; if the person being removed is a child or grandchild in that person's lawful custody; if the defender is engaged in unlawful activity; or against a peace officer performing official duties who identified himself or herself (or whom the defender knew or should have known was an officer). A person who unlawfully and by force enters or attempts to enter is presumed to intend an unlawful act involving force or violence (§ 503.055). Deadly force to protect property is justifiable against a person attempting to dispossess the defendant of a dwelling without a claim of right, or committing burglary, robbery, other forcible felony or arson of the dwelling (§ 503.080(2)). Immunity: a person who uses force as permitted is immune from criminal prosecution (including arrest, detention and charging) and civil action, except against an identified peace officer acting in official duties; the court shall award attorney's fees, costs, lost income and expenses to a defendant found immune in a civil action (§ 503.085).

Felonies: 'Except as otherwise expressly provided, the prosecution of a felony is not subject to a period of limitation and may be commenced at any time.' Offenses other than a felony (misdemeanors and violations): must be commenced within 1 year after the offense is committed. Misdemeanor sex offenses when the victim is a minor: within 10 years after the victim attains the age of 18.

Any person charged with an offense shall be released by a court of competent jurisdiction on personal recognizance or an unsecured bail bond in an amount set by the court or fixed by the Supreme Court, unless the court determines release will not reasonably assure appearance or that the person is a flight risk or a danger to others; then the court may impose conditions such as supervised custody, travel restrictions, a surety bond, a 10% deposit bond, a full cash bond, drug/alcohol testing, GPS monitoring, or other conditions (§ 431.520). A person still detained 24 hours after conditions are imposed because of inability to meet them is entitled, on written application or the court's own motion, to have the conditions reviewed (§ 431.520(8)). Bail must be sufficient to ensure compliance, not oppressive, commensurate with the offense, considerate of past criminal acts and anticipated conduct, and considerate of the defendant's financial ability; for one or more misdemeanors not involving physical injury or sexual contact, bail for all charges shall not exceed the fine and court costs for the highest misdemeanor charged; these limits do not apply to a defendant found to be a flight risk or danger, and a denial of release must be documented in a written order (§ 431.525). Commercial bail: it is unlawful for any person to engage in the business of bail bondsman; charitable bail organizations may not post bail of $5,000 or more, or any bail for certain domestic-violence, dating-violence or violent-offender charges (§ 431.510).

A 'needy person' who is detained on suspicion of, or formally charged with, a serious crime (and certain juvenile public or status offenses) is entitled to be represented by an attorney from the Department of Public Advocacy, with court costs waived (§ 31.110). The court in which the case is pending determines, at each step, whether the person is needy, considering factors such as income, property, vehicles, assets, obligations, dependents, federal poverty guidelines, complexity of the case and any money bail paid; counsel may be appointed at the earliest necessary proceeding upon the person's declaration of being needy, subject to reimbursement if later found not needy. The person certifies an affidavit of indigency (compiled by the pretrial release officer), under penalty of perjury (§ 31.120). At arraignment the court holds a nonadversarial hearing to decide whether a person who requested a public defender can pay a partial fee for representation and court costs, in an amount the court determines (lump sum or installments); an unpaid partial fee becomes a civil judgment (§ 31.211).

A person is deemed incapable of consent when he or she is 'Less than sixteen (16) years old' or 'Sixteen (16) or seventeen (17) years old and the actor is at least ten (10) years older than the victim at the time of the sexual act' (§ 510.020(3)). Rape in the third degree (Class D felony) includes a person 21 or older having intercourse with a person less than 16, or a person at least 10 years older than a 16- or 17-year-old (§ 510.060). Rape in the second degree (Class C felony) is a person 18 or older having intercourse with a person less than 14 (§ 510.050); rape in the first degree includes intercourse with a person less than 12 (§ 510.040).

Adult-use marijuana is not legal. Possession of marijuana not in compliance with KRS Chapter 218B (the medicinal cannabis program) is a Class B misdemeanor, except that the maximum term of incarceration shall be no greater than 45 days (§ 218A.1422, effective July 1, 2024). The section does not apply to a licensed cannabis business or agent, or to a registered cardholder whose use of medicinal cannabis complies with KRS Chapter 218B. A court may order a person found guilty of possession to a treatment or recovery program not to exceed 90 days (§ 218A.276).

Kentucky grades assault in four degrees by injury and weapon. Fourth-degree assault, intentionally or wantonly causing physical injury (or recklessly causing it with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument), is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $500 fine). Second-degree assault, intentionally causing serious physical injury, or causing physical injury with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years). First-degree assault, intentionally causing serious physical injury with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument, or causing serious physical injury through conduct showing extreme indifference to human life, is a Class B felony (10 to 20 years). Third-degree assault covers intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury to a police officer, corrections employee, school employee, emergency responder or other listed worker, and is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years).

Kentucky has no separate crime called battery. Causing physical injury is charged as assault (most often fourth-degree assault, a Class A misdemeanor). Offensive physical contact without injury, such as striking, shoving or kicking someone with intent to harass, annoy or alarm, is charged as harassment, which is a Class B misdemeanor when it involves physical contact (up to 90 days in jail and a $250 fine).

Kentucky has no separate domestic battery crime; assault on a family member or member of an unmarried couple is charged under the regular assault degrees, usually fourth-degree assault, a Class A misdemeanor. A third or later fourth-degree assault within five years, where each victim was a family member or member of an unmarried couple (as defined in KRS 403.720), may be charged as a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); the victims need not be the same person. Strangulation, without consent impeding someone's breathing or blood circulation by pressure on the throat or neck or by blocking the nose or mouth, is a Class C felony if intentional (first degree) and a Class D felony if wanton (second degree), regardless of the relationship.

Kentucky charges shoplifting as theft by unlawful taking; willfully hiding unpurchased merchandise in a store is prima facie evidence of intent to steal. Theft of property worth less than $500 is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days in jail and a $250 fine), and $500 or more but less than $1,000 is a Class A misdemeanor. A person with three or more Class A misdemeanor theft convictions in the last five years is charged with a Class D felony, and separate thefts within one year may be combined and their values added together. Under the civil statute, an adult who takes store merchandise without paying owes the merchant actual damages plus a penalty equal to the retail value of the merchandise up to $500, plus an additional penalty of $100 to $250; custodial parents of a minor are liable on the same terms, and no criminal conviction is required.

Burglary is knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully in a building with intent to commit a crime. Third-degree burglary (any building) is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); second-degree burglary (a dwelling) is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years); first-degree burglary, where the burglar or a participant is armed with explosives or a deadly weapon, injures a non-participant, or uses or threatens a dangerous instrument, is a Class B felony (10 to 20 years). Robbery is using or threatening immediate physical force on someone while committing a theft. Second-degree robbery is a Class C felony; first-degree robbery, where the robber injures a non-participant, is armed with a deadly weapon, or uses or threatens a dangerous instrument, is a Class B felony. Each of these is one class higher if it happens during a declared emergency in the disaster area.

Vandalism is called criminal mischief in Kentucky: intentionally or wantonly defacing, destroying or damaging property without a right to do so (which covers graffiti). Damage causing a loss of less than $500 is second-degree criminal mischief, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months and a $500 fine). Damage of $500 or more, or damaging or tampering with key infrastructure so it is inoperable or dangerous, is first-degree criminal mischief, a Class D felony (1 to 5 years). If the defendant repairs or replaces the property, pays full restitution or performs court-ordered community service before trial, the charge drops to a Class B misdemeanor (for a first offense in the first degree, or for second-degree mischief) or a Class A misdemeanor (for a repeat first-degree offense). Both degrees are graded one step higher during a declared emergency in the disaster area.

Criminal trespass in Kentucky has three degrees. Knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully in a dwelling is first degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Unlawfully entering or remaining in a building, on fenced or enclosed premises, or in a workplace while making threats after being warned, is second degree, a Class B misdemeanor; a second offense within three years is a Class A misdemeanor. Purple paint marks on trees or posts count as notice against trespass. Knowingly entering or remaining unlawfully on any premises is third degree, a violation (fine up to $250), rising to a Class B misdemeanor for a second offense within three years. All three are graded higher during a declared emergency in the disaster area.

Possessing a Schedule I or II narcotic drug (such as heroin or fentanyl), methamphetamine, LSD, PCP, GHB, flunitrazepam or a controlled substance analogue is first-degree possession, a Class D felony with a maximum of three years. For a first or second offense, the person may be offered deferred prosecution (preferred for a first offense) or presumptive probation; deferred prosecution requires the prosecutor's agreement, lasts up to two years, and on successful completion the charges are dismissed and records sealed. Possessing other Schedule I or II drugs or Schedule III drugs is second-degree possession, and Schedule IV or V drugs is third-degree possession; both are Class A misdemeanors (up to 12 months). Using or possessing drug paraphernalia is a Class A misdemeanor.

A driver involved in a crash that injures or kills someone, or damages an attended vehicle or other property, must immediately stop, check the extent of injury or damage, give reasonable help (including arranging transport to medical care), and give registration, names and addresses on request. Failing to do so is punishable by a fine of $20 to $2,000, up to one year in county jail, or both. It is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) if the crash involved death or serious physical injury and the driver knew or should have known it.

Kentucky law requires drivers to operate carefully and forbids driving any vehicle in a reckless or negligent manner that endangers people or property on or near a highway or highway work zone. A reckless-driving violation can lead to revocation of the driver's license under KRS 186.560, and a reckless driver who causes physical injury to a person is fined $500. Failing to drive carefully under the general careful-driving rule carries a fine of $20 to $100.

Harassment, acting with intent to intimidate, harass, annoy or alarm by following someone in public, making offensively coarse public displays, or repeatedly doing things with no legitimate purpose that alarm or seriously annoy someone, is a violation (fine up to $250), or a Class B misdemeanor if it involves physical contact. Harassing communications by phone, mail, text or other electronic or written means with no legitimate purpose is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days). As of July 15, 2026, Kentucky has a single stalking offense: intentionally engaging in a course of conduct (two or more acts, including following, monitoring, surveillance or contact through the internet, social media, texts or phones) that seriously alarms, annoys, intimidates or harasses someone, serves no legitimate purpose and causes substantial mental distress. Stalking is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years), and a Class C felony (5 to 10 years) if it violates a protective order, a criminal complaint by the same victim is pending, the stalker had a felony or Class A misdemeanor conviction against the same victim within five years, the stalker had a deadly weapon, or the victim is placed in reasonable fear of sexual contact, physical injury or death.

Resisting arrest, intentionally preventing or trying to prevent a recognized peace officer from making an arrest by using or threatening force or by other means creating a substantial risk of injury, is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months). Fleeing or evading police: disobeying an officer's direction to stop a motor vehicle is second-degree fleeing, a Class D felony; it is first degree, a Class C felony, if the driver is fleeing right after domestic violence, is driving under the influence, is driving on a license suspended for DUI, or causes or creates a substantial risk of serious injury or death. Defendants convicted of first- or second-degree fleeing must serve at least 50% of the sentence before probation or parole. Fleeing on foot is a Class A misdemeanor if it creates a substantial risk of physical injury (third degree), a Class D felony if it causes physical injury after a stop based on reasonable suspicion, and a Class C felony if it follows domestic violence or causes serious physical injury or death.

Kentucky calls missing court after release "bail jumping." A person released by court order (with or without bail) on condition of appearing at a set time and place who intentionally fails to appear commits bail jumping in the first degree, a Class D felony (1 to 5 years), if the charge was a felony, or bail jumping in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months), if the charge was a misdemeanor. The defendant may prove that the failure to appear was unavoidable and due to circumstances beyond their control.

A judge decides probation violations. Before probation ends, the court may summon the person or issue an arrest warrant on probable cause that a condition was violated, and a probation officer (or a peace officer at the officer's direction) who sees a violation may arrest without a warrant. Except for graduated sanctions imposed by the Department of Corrections under KRS 439.3108, the court may not revoke or modify probation except after a hearing, with the person represented by counsel, following written notice of the grounds. State law provides that supervised individuals face revocation and possible incarceration when the failure to comply is a significant risk to prior victims or the community and cannot be appropriately managed in the community; otherwise they are subject to lesser sanctions suited to the violation.

Obstructing governmental operations (intentionally obstructing a government function by using or threatening violence, force or physical interference) is a Class A misdemeanor; it does not apply to obstructing an arrest. Tampering with a witness (trying to get a witness to stay away or not testify, or using false statements or fraud to affect testimony) is a Class D felony. Intimidating a participant in the legal process (using harassing communications, force or threats to influence a witness, juror or other participant, or to stop information reaching police or a judge) is a Class D felony. Tampering with physical evidence (destroying, concealing or altering evidence, or fabricating it, for an official proceeding) is also a Class D felony.

Perjury in the first degree is making a material false statement, not believed to be true, under oath in an official proceeding (and in certain sworn warrant applications); it is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years). Perjury in the second degree, a material false statement in a sworn written document meant to mislead a public servant, is a Class A misdemeanor. False swearing, any false statement under a legally required or authorized oath, is a Class B misdemeanor.

Kentucky has two offenses. Alcohol intoxication is appearing in a public place manifestly under the influence of alcohol to the degree that the person may endanger themselves, others or property, or unreasonably annoy people nearby; drinking alcohol in a public place is a separate offense. For a first or second offense each carries a fine of not less than $25; a third or later offense within 12 months carries a fine of $25 to $100, or 5 to 90 days in county jail, or both, and the court may order a treatment or education program. Public intoxication from a controlled substance or other non-alcohol intoxicant (or alcohol combined with one) is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days).

Disorderly conduct in the second degree is, in a public place and intending to cause (or wantonly risking) public inconvenience, annoyance or alarm, fighting or violent, tumultuous or threatening behavior, unreasonable noise, refusing an official order to disperse near a fire or other emergency, or creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition for no legitimate purpose. It is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days). It becomes disorderly conduct in the first degree, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months), when done knowingly within 300 feet of a funeral, burial, viewing, funeral procession or memorial service, from one hour before until one hour after the event.

Indecent exposure is intentionally exposing one's genitals when the person knows or should know it is likely to cause affront or alarm. When the person likely to be affronted is 18 or older it is second degree, a Class B misdemeanor. When it is a person under 18 it is first degree: a Class B misdemeanor for a first offense, a Class A misdemeanor for a second offense within three years, and a Class D felony for a third or later offense within three years of the prior conviction.

Prostitution is engaging in, or agreeing or offering to engage in, sexual conduct with another person in return for a fee; it is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days). Loitering in a public place for prostitution is a violation (fine only) for a first offense and a Class B misdemeanor for a second or later offense. A person under 18 suspected of prostitution may not be prosecuted for it and is instead referred to the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Prostitution is not legal anywhere in Kentucky.

Legal gambling in Kentucky includes the state lottery (KRS Chapter 154A), pari-mutuel horse-race wagering and other wagering licensed under KRS Chapter 230 by the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation, sports wagering (offered at licensed facilities or online through approved websites and mobile apps), fantasy contests, and licensed charitable gaming (KRS Chapter 238). Kentucky's gambling crimes target those who run or profit from illegal gambling: promoting gambling in the second degree (knowingly advancing or profiting from unlawful gambling) is a Class A misdemeanor, and promoting gambling in the first degree (larger bookmaking operations, lotteries taking over $500 a day, or setting up and operating a gambling device) is a Class D felony. Knowingly allowing one's premises to be used for gambling not licensed under Chapters 154A, 230 or 238 is permitting gambling, a Class B misdemeanor.

Kentucky usually charges embezzlement as theft by failure to make required disposition of property: receiving property under an agreement or legal duty to pay it over or use it in a specified way, then intentionally treating it as one's own. A government or financial-institution officer or employee is presumed to have done so if they fail to account or pay on lawful demand or an audit shows a shortage. It is a Class B misdemeanor under $500; a Class A misdemeanor from $500 to under $1,000; a Class D felony from $1,000 to under $10,000 (or with three or more convictions at the $500-to-$1,000 level within five years); and a Class C felony at $10,000 or more. Separate offenses within 90 days may be combined to reach a higher value.

Theft of identity is knowingly possessing or using another person's identifying information (such as name, Social Security number, birth date or account PIN) to pose as that person in order to take their property, obtain benefits or property, make financial or credit transactions, avoid detection, or gain a commercial or political benefit. It is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years). Credit or debit card fraud is charged separately: fraudulently using a stolen, forged, expired or revoked card is a Class B misdemeanor unless the value obtained over six months is $500 to under $1,000 (Class A misdemeanor) or $1,000 to under $10,000 (Class D felony).

Forgery is falsely making, completing or altering a written instrument with intent to defraud, deceive or injure. Forging money, stamps, securities or stock is forgery in the first degree, a Class C felony (5 to 10 years); forging a deed, will, contract, credit card, commercial instrument, public record or government-issued document is second degree, a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); and any other forged writing is third degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Writing a bad check is charged as theft by deception: the maker is presumed to know a check would not be paid if they had no account, or if it bounced for lack of funds and they did not make it good within 10 days after notice. It is a Class B misdemeanor under $500, a Class A misdemeanor from $500 to under $1,000, a Class D felony from $1,000 to under $10,000, and a Class C felony at $10,000 or more.

Blackmail and extortion are charged as theft by extortion: intentionally obtaining someone's property by threatening to injure anyone or commit a crime, accuse someone of a crime, expose a secret that would bring hatred, contempt or ridicule or harm someone's credit or business, misuse a public office, start a strike or boycott, or give or withhold testimony. It is graded by value: a Class B misdemeanor under $500, a Class A misdemeanor from $500 to under $1,000, a Class D felony from $1,000 to under $10,000, and a Class C felony at $10,000 or more. It is a defense to certain threats (accusation, exposure, or official action) that the property was claimed as restitution or compensation for the harm involved.

Kentucky has a single crime of murder rather than degrees: intentionally causing someone's death (unless acting under extreme emotional disturbance with a reasonable explanation), or wantonly causing a death under circumstances showing extreme indifference to human life, including by driving. Murder is a capital offense, punishable by death, life without parole, life without parole for 25 years, life, or a term of 20 to 50 years.

First-degree manslaughter (Class B felony, 10-20 years) covers causing a death while intending only serious injury, an intentional killing under extreme emotional disturbance, killing a child 12 or under or a helpless person through intentional abuse or neglect, and knowingly selling fentanyl that causes a death. Second-degree manslaughter (Class C felony, 5-10 years) is wantonly causing a death, including by driving, leaving a young child in a car, or distributing drugs or fentanyl that cause a death. Reckless homicide (Class D felony, 1-5 years) is recklessly causing a death. Vehicular homicide - causing a death while driving (or operating a boat or plane) under the influence - is a Class B felony.

A parent, guardian or custodian who fails or refuses to use reasonable diligence to keep a child from becoming neglected, dependent or delinquent commits endangering the welfare of a minor, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months and $500). Contributing to delinquency is covered by unlawful transaction with a minor in the third degree - knowingly getting a minor to commit other criminal activity, become a habitual truant or persistently disobey a parent, or (other than a parent) supplying a minor with alcohol - also a Class A misdemeanor.

First-degree arson - starting a fire or explosion to destroy or damage a building that is, or may be, inhabited or occupied, or that seriously injures anyone (including firefighters) - is a Class A felony (20-50 years or life). Second-degree arson - setting fire to destroy another's building, or one's own to collect insurance - is a Class B felony (10-20 years). Third-degree arson - wantonly damaging a building by intentionally starting a fire - is a Class D felony (1-5 years).

Second-degree cruelty to animals - intentionally or wantonly abandoning, beating, mutilating, tormenting or torturing an animal (other than a dog or cat), failing to provide adequate food, water, space or health care, cruel neglect, or attending an animal fight - is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months). Intentionally torturing a dog or cat is a Class D felony (1-5 years), and each act may be a separate offense. Dog fighting (first-degree cruelty) is a Class D felony. For offenses involving horses, the court may order restitution and terminate or restrict the person's right to own or care for that animal.

Yes. Intentionally distributing private sexual images of someone to a third party without their written consent, to profit or to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten or coerce them, when disclosure would harm a reasonable person, is a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense and a Class D felony after that; if done for profit, it is a Class D felony the first time and a Class C felony after. Consent to taking an image is not consent to sharing it. Websites and apps that publish such images must remove them at the request of the person shown and may not charge a removal fee. A conviction does not require sex-offender registration.

Kentucky's harassing communications law expressly covers student cyberbullying: a student enrolled in a local school district who, with intent to intimidate, harass, annoy or alarm, communicates with or about another student by phone, internet, mail or other electronic or written means in a way a reasonable person would know would cause the other student fear of physical harm, intimidation, humiliation or embarrassment, with no legitimate purpose, commits harassing communications. Electronic messages meant to harass anyone that cause annoyance or alarm are also covered. The offense is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days and a $250 fine).

Human trafficking - intentionally subjecting someone to forced labor or services, or to commercial sex through force, fraud or coercion (no force needed if the victim is under 18) - is a Class B felony (10-20 years), or a Class A felony (20-50 years or life) if the victim is a minor. Promoting human trafficking - profiting from it, or recruiting, transporting, advertising, harboring or soliciting a person knowing they will be trafficked - is a Class C felony (5-10 years), or Class B if a victim is under 18.

Pedestrians must obey traffic-control devices and pedestrian signals. A pedestrian crossing outside a marked crosswalk or an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection must yield to all vehicles; between adjacent signalized intersections within city limits, pedestrians may cross only in a marked crosswalk; they may not cross an intersection diagonally unless signals allow it, step suddenly into the path of a nearby vehicle, or walk in the roadway where a usable sidewalk exists. Drivers must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks where no signal operates and use due care. A violation carries a fine of $20 to $100.

It is illegal to possess an open alcoholic beverage container in the passenger area (including an unlocked glove box) of a motor vehicle on a public highway or its right-of-way. Passengers (not the driver) in buses, taxis, limousines, RVs and motor homes are exempt, and a container may be kept in a locked glove box or behind the last upright seat of a vehicle without a trunk. The fine is $35 to $100.

A person under 21 may not possess alcohol for personal use, buy or try to buy it, have someone else buy it, misrepresent their age, or enter a licensed premises to buy alcohol. These are 'violations' (non-criminal offenses with a fine of up to $250). Using or trying to use a false, fraudulent or altered ID to buy alcohol is a violation for a first offense and a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months) for each later offense. For anyone under 18, these offenses are status offenses handled in juvenile court or the family court.

Driving while one's license is denied, canceled, suspended or revoked is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days and $250). If the license was suspended for DUI and the person drives without an ignition-interlock or hardship license, it is a Class B misdemeanor with an extra six-month suspension for a first offense in ten years, a Class A misdemeanor with a one-year suspension for a second, and a Class D felony (1-5 years) with a two-year suspension for a third; each step is higher if the person was also driving under the influence at the time. Showing the court a license that was valid on the date of the charge is a defense.

Driving on a highway without ever having applied for an operator's license is barred by the same statute as driving while suspended and is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days and $250); allowing an unlicensed person to drive your vehicle is also prohibited. Licensed drivers must carry their license and show it on demand; producing in court a license that was valid at the time of arrest is a defense, and a court may dismiss the charge without fine or costs if the person had a license but in good faith failed to carry or lost it.

Kentucky does not ban switchblades or other knife types by statute. Any knife other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife is a 'deadly weapon.' Adults 21 and older who may lawfully possess a firearm may carry a concealed deadly weapon, including such a knife, without a license; otherwise carrying one concealed is a Class A misdemeanor (a Class D felony for someone with a prior felony involving a deadly weapon), with exceptions such as on one's own property. Possessing a deadly weapon in any public or private school building, bus, campus or other school property (other than colleges) is a Class D felony, punishable by up to five years.

Consumer (1.4G) fireworks - including sparklers, fountains, aerial devices such as sky rockets and bottle rockets, and small firecrackers within federal limits - may be sold in Kentucky by registered retailers; seasonal retailers may sell from June 10 to July 7 and December 26 to January 4. It is illegal to give or sell consumer fireworks to anyone under 18, and people under 18 may not sell them at retail facilities or work at fireworks distribution or manufacturing facilities. Display fireworks are restricted to permitted professional displays. Violating the consumer fireworks rules is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to 30 days in jail, or both. Local ordinances on use are not displaced by the state law.

Kidnapping is unlawfully restraining someone with intent to hold them for ransom or reward, to commit or advance a felony, to injure or terrorize the victim or another, to interfere with a government or political function, to use them as a shield or hostage, or (for a non-custodian) to take a minor from parents or guardians. It is a Class B felony (10 to 20 years) if the victim is released alive in a safe place before trial; a Class A felony (20 to 50 years or life) if the victim suffered serious physical injury or was not released safely; and a capital offense if the victim is not released alive or later dies from injuries or from not being released safely. Unlawful imprisonment in the first degree (knowingly restraining someone in circumstances exposing them to a risk of serious physical injury) is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); second-degree unlawful imprisonment is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months).

Kentucky calls threats of violence 'terroristic threatening.' Third degree (threatening any crime likely to cause death or serious physical injury, or substantial property damage, to another person, or making false statements to cause evacuation of a building or transit facility) is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months). Second degree (threatening an act likely to cause death or serious injury at a school function, place of worship, workplace, public event or gathering of three or more people, false school-violence statements meant to cause evacuation or fear, or false claims of planting a weapon of mass destruction) is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years), raised to a Class C felony when the person also takes substantial steps to prepare or carry out the threat. First degree (false claims of a weapon of mass destruction at a school, government building, workplace, domestic violence shelter or gathering, or placing a counterfeit one) is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years). Menacing (intentionally putting someone in reasonable fear of imminent physical injury) is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days).

Stealing a car is charged as theft by unlawful taking, graded by value: under $500 is a Class B misdemeanor; $500 to under $1,000 a Class A misdemeanor; $1,000 to under $10,000 a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); $10,000 to under $1 million a Class C felony (5 to 10 years); and $1 million or more a Class B felony. Thefts committed within one year may be combined and their values added together. Joyriding, called 'unauthorized use of an automobile or other propelled vehicle' (knowingly operating or using a vehicle without the owner's consent), is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months), but a Class D felony if the person has a prior conviction for this offense or for stealing a vehicle.

Receiving, keeping or disposing of someone else's property while knowing or having reason to believe it was stolen (unless meant to return it to the owner) is receiving stolen property, and possessing recently stolen property is prima facie evidence of knowledge. It is a Class B misdemeanor under $500; a Class A misdemeanor from $500 to under $1,000; a Class D felony from $1,000 to under $10,000 (1 to 5 years), or for a firearm, or with three or more prior Class A convictions in five years; and a Class C felony at $10,000 or more (5 to 10 years). Separate offenses within 90 days may be combined and their values added together.

Kentucky has no state law that creates a separate organized retail theft crime. Retail thefts are charged under the general theft-by-unlawful-taking statute, which allows two or more thefts committed within one year to be combined into a single offense, with their values added together to set the grade, and allows thefts in different Kentucky counties to be combined and tried in any county where venue is proper for one of them. Under the general grading, a combined value of $1,000 to under $10,000 is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) and $10,000 to under $1 million a Class C felony (5 to 10 years).

First-degree trafficking covers 4 grams or more of cocaine, 2 grams or more of methamphetamine, 10 or more dosage units of a Schedule I or II narcotic, or any amount of heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, LSD, PCP, GHB or flunitrazepam; it is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years) for a first offense and a Class B felony (10 to 20 years) for a repeat, and a first offense with smaller amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine or narcotic pills is a Class D felony. Amounts may be added up over a 90-day period, the grade rises one level if fentanyl causes a death, and heroin or fentanyl convictions at Class C or higher require serving 50% of the sentence before release. Aggravated trafficking (100 grams or more of heroin, 28 grams or more of fentanyl, or 10 grams or more of carfentanil or fentanyl derivatives) is a Class B felony with no release before serving 50% (heroin) or 85% (fentanyl-type drugs, also no pretrial diversion). Second-degree trafficking (other Schedule I-II drugs and Schedule III) is generally a Class D felony, and third-degree trafficking (Schedule IV-V) ranges from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class D felony.

It is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) to get or try to get a controlled-substance prescription by knowingly misrepresenting or withholding information from a practitioner, to use a false name or address to obtain a controlled substance, to obtain a prescription without a valid practitioner-patient relationship, to pose as a pharmacist or practitioner, or to present a prescription obtained illegally. Forging a controlled-substance prescription, and knowingly uttering or possessing a forged one with intent to defraud, are each a Class D felony for a first offense and a Class C felony (5 to 10 years) for a repeat offense.

Kentucky's assault chapter has no separate 'vehicular assault' offense; injuries caused by driving are charged under the general assault statutes, which are graded by mental state and injury. First-degree assault (wantonly causing serious physical injury through conduct showing extreme indifference to human life and creating a grave risk of death) is a Class B felony (10 to 20 years); second-degree assault (including wantonly causing serious physical injury with a dangerous instrument) is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years); and fourth-degree assault (intentionally or wantonly causing physical injury, or recklessly causing it with a dangerous instrument) is a Class A misdemeanor. Under the DUI law, causing an accident that results in death or serious physical injury is an 'aggravating circumstance' that raises the mandatory minimum jail term for the DUI itself (for example to 4 days for a first offense and 14 days for a second).

No one may engage in motor vehicle racing, drag racing or any other form of motor vehicle competition on a Kentucky street or highway, except at a racing event permitted by a local government under KRS 189.503.

It is illegal to operate a motorboat or vessel, or use water skis or a similar device, while intoxicated or under the influence of any substance that impairs driving ability; the elements are the same as for DUI (including the 0.08 alcohol concentration standard of KRS 189A.010), and operators are deemed to consent to testing. Boating under the influence is a separate offense from DUI with its own penalties: a fine of $200 to $250 or 24 hours in jail for a first offense, $350 to $500 or 48 hours for a second, and $600 to $1,000 or at least 30 days in county jail, or both, for a third or later offense. Refusing a breath or similar test is itself an offense, and the court may also require a safe-boating course.

A 'fraudulent insurance act' includes knowingly presenting false, incomplete or misleading information to support an insurance or workers' compensation claim or application, inflating repair or damage costs, taking premium money without buying insurance, faking a death or disability, or issuing fake insurance cards or certificates. It is graded by the total amount involved: a Class A misdemeanor under $500; a Class D felony from $500 to under $10,000 (1 to 5 years); a Class C felony from $10,000 to under $1 million (5 to 10 years); and a Class B felony at $1 million or more (10 to 20 years). Fines can reach $10,000 per individual for a felony (or twice the gain), and the court may order restitution and investigation costs.

Knowingly making a false statement, hiding a material fact, or failing to report a change in circumstances, with intent to defraud, to get public assistance benefits (such as food stamps/SNAP or cash assistance) is a Class B misdemeanor; a Class A misdemeanor if the excess benefits are $500 to under $1,000; and a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) at $1,000 or more or with three prior Class A convictions in five years. Trafficking or misusing benefit cards or EBT codes is a Class D felony, and the person must repay all benefits they were not entitled to as a civil penalty. Medicaid fraud by false claims or statements uses the same value grades, and unemployment fraud (knowingly lying or hiding facts to get or increase benefits) is likewise a Class B misdemeanor, a Class A misdemeanor at $500, and a Class D felony at $1,000 or more. Offenses within 90 days may be combined to set the grade.

Bribery of a public servant (offering, giving or agreeing to give any pecuniary benefit to influence a public servant's vote, judgment or official action, or a public servant soliciting or accepting one) is a Class C felony, punishable by 5 to 10 years. Providing the money or benefit for someone else's bribe is also a Class C felony. Commercial bribery (offering a benefit to an employee, agent or fiduciary to influence them against their employer's or beneficiary's interests) and receiving a commercial bribe are Class A misdemeanors (up to 12 months).

Under Kentucky's income tax law, a taxpayer or employer who willfully fails to file a return, willfully files a false return, or willfully fails to pay taxes owed or collected, with intent to evade payment, is guilty of a Class D felony (1 to 5 years), in addition to civil penalties. Willfully helping prepare or present a false or fraudulent return, affidavit or claim is also a Class D felony.

Kentucky grades rape (sexual intercourse) and sodomy (other sexual intercourse) by degree. First-degree rape or sodomy (by forcible compulsion, or with someone physically helpless) is a Class B felony (10 to 20 years), and a Class A felony (20 to 50 years or life) if the victim suffers serious physical injury or is under 12. Second-degree rape (with someone mentally incapacitated or unable to consent because of an intellectual disability) is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years). Sexual abuse (unwanted sexual contact) in the first degree, by forcible compulsion or with someone helpless or incapacitated, is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); sexual abuse in the third degree (sexual contact without consent) is a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days).

Sexual intercourse or sodomy with a child under 12 is first-degree rape or sodomy, a Class A felony (20 to 50 years or life). An adult who has intercourse with a child under 14 commits second-degree rape, a Class C felony (5 to 10 years), or a Class B felony if the adult holds a position of authority or special trust. Sexual contact with a child under 12, or by a person 21 or older with a child under 16 (including masturbating in a child's presence or over a live video or phone connection with a child under 16), is first-degree sexual abuse: a Class C felony if the child is under 12 and a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) otherwise. Sexual contact by an 18- to 20-year-old with a child under 16 is second-degree sexual abuse, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months), with a close-in-age defense when the child is at least 14.

Knowingly possessing, or intentionally viewing, material showing a sexual performance by a minor (including a computer-generated image of a minor) is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years), or a Class C felony (5 to 10 years) if the person knows the minor is under 12. Distributing such material, or possessing it with intent to distribute (possessing more than one unit is presumed to be intent to distribute), is a Class C felony, or a Class B felony (10 to 20 years) if the minor is under 12. Anyone convicted of possessing, viewing or distributing must serve at least 85% of the sentence before probation or parole. Using a minor in a sexual performance is a Class C felony, a Class B felony if the minor is under 16, and a Class A felony if the minor is physically injured.

Kentucky makes it a crime to knowingly use a computer, phone or other electronic communications system to procure or promote a minor (including an officer posing as a minor, or an adult claiming to be a go-between for a minor) for rape, sodomy, sexual abuse, commercial sexual activity, or child sexual abuse material offenses. It is a Class C felony (5 to 10 years), and a Class B felony (10 to 20 years) if the minor or perceived minor is under 12, the offender holds a position of authority or special trust, is already a registered sex offender, or came into Kentucky for this purpose, or the activity is commercial sexual activity. The crime is complete once the solicitation is made, whether or not a meeting happens, and each day of use is a separate offense.

People convicted of sex crimes and certain crimes against minors must register with the local probation and parole office on or before release, and re-register when they move (within five working days in a new county). Registration lasts 20 years after discharge from confinement or from the maximum discharge date of probation or parole, whichever is later, and for life for first-degree rape or sodomy, a second sex crime, two or more felonies against minors, kidnapping or unlawful imprisonment of a minor by a non-parent, or a sexually violent predator. Knowingly violating registration requirements, or giving false, misleading or incomplete information, is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) for a first offense and a Class C felony (5 to 10 years) for each later offense.

A person convicted of a felony in any state or federal court who possesses, manufactures or transports a firearm commits possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a Class D felony (1 to 5 years), or a Class C felony (5 to 10 years) if the firearm is a handgun. If a felon possessed a firearm while committing another crime, a second or later violation is punished one class higher. The ban applies to youthful offenders convicted of felonies. It does not apply to a person who has received a full pardon from the Governor or the President, or federal relief from the firearms disability.

Kentucky grades unlawful access to a computer by purpose and harm. Accessing a computer, network, program or data without the owner's consent to carry out a scheme to defraud or to obtain money, property or services by false pretenses is first degree, a Class C felony (5 to 10 years). Unauthorized access causing $300 or more in loss or damage is second degree, a Class D felony (1 to 5 years); under $300 is third degree, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months); and unauthorized access with no loss or damage is fourth degree, a Class B misdemeanor (up to 90 days). Receiving or using the proceeds of a first-degree violation is misuse of computer information, a Class C felony.

Kentucky is a one-party consent state: 'eavesdropping' means using a device to overhear, record, amplify or transmit a phone or in-person conversation of others without the consent of at least one party, so a participant may record or one party may consent. Intentionally using a device to eavesdrop, whether or not the person is present, is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years).

Reporting to police a crime or incident the person knows did not happen, giving police information about an offense when the person knows they have none, or giving false information to an officer to implicate someone else is falsely reporting an incident, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months). Knowingly causing a false fire or emergency alarm, or spreading a false report of a fire or emergency likely to cause public alarm, that results in an emergency response (as in 'swatting') is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years). The court must order restitution for the reasonable costs of the emergency response and for anyone harmed by it.

Kentucky's hate crime law does not create a separate crime or raise the class of the offense. For listed crimes (including homicide, assault, menacing, wanton endangerment, terroristic threatening, unlawful imprisonment, sex offenses, burglary, arson, criminal mischief and riot), the sentencing judge may find by a preponderance of the evidence that a hate crime was a primary factor, meaning the person acted because of race, color, religion, sexual orientation or national origin, or because the victim is or is perceived to be a peace officer, firefighter or EMS worker. That finding may be the sole reason to deny probation or other alternatives to jail, and the Parole Board may use it to delay or deny parole.

Kentucky has parole, decided by the Kentucky Parole Board. A parole officer who believes a parolee (or someone on postincarceration supervision) violated release conditions may arrest without a warrant; the commissioner may recommend return to prison, and the board may issue a warrant. A prisoner returned to state custody for a violation must be heard by the board within 60 days on whether to re-release. Revocation and incarceration are meant for violations that pose a significant risk to victims or the community and cannot be managed in the community; otherwise graduated sanctions apply, and at a final revocation hearing the board may impose a 'supervision continuation sanction' of up to nine months in a jail, treatment program or halfway house, after which the person returns to supervision.

Intentionally violating a domestic violence or interpersonal protective order after being served or notified is both contempt of court and a crime, but only one of the two may be pursued. Violation of an order of protection is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months), but a third or later violation within five years is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years) if it involves the use or attempted use of physical force or a threat of physical harm; the earlier violations need not involve the same protected person.

Kentucky tries juveniles as adults through 'youthful offender' transfer. On the county attorney's motion, a child who was 14 or older and is charged with a capital offense or a Class A or B felony, a child 16 or older charged with a Class C or D felony who has a prior felony adjudication, a child 14 or older charged with a felony in which a firearm was used, or a child previously convicted as a youthful offender, goes to a preliminary hearing where the district court, after finding probable cause, may transfer the case to circuit court for trial as an adult if two or more listed factors (such as seriousness, offense against persons, maturity, prior record, public protection and prospects for rehabilitation) favor transfer. A child 15 or older charged with a Class A, B or C felony in which a firearm was used is transferred to circuit court for trial as an adult if the court finds probable cause, though the case may be sent back. Youthful offenders convicted as adults are held in juvenile facilities until 18.

Kentucky has the death penalty. Murder is a capital offense, and a person convicted of a capital offense may be sentenced to death, life without parole, life without parole for 25 years, life, or 20 to 50 years; the jury must find at least one statutory aggravating circumstance to recommend death. By statute, executions are by lethal injection; people sentenced to death before March 31, 1998, may choose electrocution instead. Kentucky's persistent violent felony offender law (2024) also allows death or life without parole for a third violent felony that is a capital offense.

A felony conviction takes away the right to vote in Kentucky until civil rights are restored by the Governor. Under Governor's Executive Order 2019-003 (December 12, 2019), the right to vote and to hold public office is restored automatically when a person with a Kentucky felony conviction fully completes (is discharged from) the sentence, probation or parole, even if restitution, fines or fees are unpaid. People convicted of treason, election bribery, violent offenses under KRS 439.3401, chapter 507/507A homicide offenses, certain assaults, first-degree strangulation, human trafficking, or any federal or out-of-state felony are not automatically restored and must apply to the Governor. Because restoration happens at final discharge, the order does not restore voting while a person is still on probation or parole.

In Kentucky, restoring civil rights is a partial pardon by the Governor. Under Executive Order 2019-003, the Department of Corrections reviews people at final discharge and, if eligible, issues a Notice of Restoration of the right to vote and to hold public office. This automatic restoration does not include the right to serve on a jury, obtain certain professional licenses, or possess a firearm. People who do not qualify (for example, violent offenses or federal and out-of-state convictions) may apply to the Governor for restoration of civil rights under KRS 196.045, through the Department of Corrections or any Probation and Parole office. A full pardon is a separate process.

Since July 15, 2024, Kentucky's persistent violent felony offender law requires life without probation or parole for a person convicted of a third violent felony (a felony that makes the person a 'violent offender' under KRS 439.3401); if the third felony is a capital offense, the sentence is death or life without parole. Separately, a persistent felony offender in the first degree (over 21, with two or more prior qualifying felonies, or a prior felony sex crime against a minor) faces 10 to 20 years if now convicted of a Class C or D felony, or 20 to 50 years or life if now convicted of a Class A or B felony; a persistent felony offender in the second degree (one prior felony) is sentenced in the range for the next higher class. Prior felonies count only if they meet timing rules, such as being on supervision or released within the last five years.

Kentucky allows and regulates hemp-derived intoxicating cannabinoids such as delta-8, delta-10, THCA and THCV under a Cabinet for Health and Family Services regulation adopted after a 2023 law directed the cabinet to regulate delta-8 and other hemp-derived substances. These 'adult-use' cannabinoid products must be registered with the cabinet, lab-tested by an accredited laboratory, labeled with a warning that the product is for adults 21 and older, kept secured in stores, and may not be sold, given or transferred to anyone under 21; products may not exceed 0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. Under a 2025 law, after the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control adopts regulations or July 1, 2026 (whichever is earlier), distribution and retail sale of cannabis-infused beverages are regulated solely by that department.

Psilocybin and psilocyn are Schedule I controlled substances in Kentucky, because Kentucky schedules every substance listed in federal Schedule I (21 C.F.R. 1308.11), which includes them. Possessing a Schedule I substance that is not a narcotic drug is possession of a controlled substance in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months and $500). Kentucky has no state psilocybin program or decriminalization law in its controlled substances statutes.

Kratom is legal but regulated in Kentucky until July 1, 2027. Kratom processors and retailers may not sell kratom extracts or products to anyone under 21, or sell products that are adulterated, contain synthetic alkaloids, or have 7-hydroxymitragynine above 2% of the alkaloid content; violations carry civil penalties of up to $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for later offenses. Separately, 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) concentrated above 400 parts per million is a Schedule I controlled substance (this does not apply to mitragynine). Under a 2026 law, starting July 1, 2027, kratom processors and retailers may not sell or make available any kratom, kratom extract or kratom product, with civil penalties raised to up to $5,000 for a first offense.

Hemp CBD products are legal in Kentucky. Kentucky makers of ingestible or cosmetic CBD products must hold a food or cosmetic manufacturer permit from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and obtain a certificate of analysis, and products sold in Kentucky must carry a bar code, QR code or web address linking to the lab results, the hemp's origin and the maker's contact information; labels may not claim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Under the cabinet's regulation, 'non-intoxicating' cannabinoid products (at least 15 parts non-intoxicating cannabinoid to 1 part adult-use cannabinoid, and no more than 2.5 mg of adult-use cannabinoid per serving) and cosmetic products may be sold to people under 21.

The minimum age to buy tobacco products, alternative nicotine products and vapor products in Kentucky is 21, and people under 21 may not possess or use them. A person under 21 who buys or tries to buy them, or uses a false ID, faces only confiscation of the product; no other penalty applies. A person under 21 found possessing or using them has the product confiscated and may be required to do community service or attend a tobacco cessation program. Retail sellers who sell to someone under 21 face a $100 fine for the clerk, owner fines of $500 (second citation) and $1,000 (third), and, on or after July 1, 2026, license revocation on a fourth citation.

Kentucky's adult abuse crimes protect any 'adult' 18 or older who, because of mental or physical dysfunction, cannot manage their resources, carry out daily living activities, or protect themselves from neglect, exploitation or abuse; there is no separate age-based elder crime in this chapter. Knowingly abusing or neglecting such an adult is a Class C felony (5-10 years), wantonly is a Class D felony (1-5 years), and recklessly is a Class A misdemeanor. Knowingly exploiting such an adult causing a loss over $300 is a Class C felony; wantonly or recklessly, a Class D felony; a loss of $300 or less is a Class A misdemeanor. A defendant who does not return the property or keep up court-ordered payments becomes civilly liable for triple damages.

In Kentucky, voyeurism (secretly viewing, photographing or recording another person's sexual conduct, genitals, hidden undergarments or female breast without consent where the person expects privacy, including by trespassing to watch) is a Class A misdemeanor (up to 12 months). Video voyeurism (recording such images without consent and then selling them or distributing them online or by other media) is a Class D felony (1 to 5 years).

Ordinary assault causing physical injury (fourth-degree assault) is a Class A misdemeanor in Kentucky. Intentionally causing or trying to cause physical injury to a peace officer (or recklessly doing so with a deadly weapon) is assault in the third degree, a Class D felony (1-5 years), or a Class C felony (5-10 years) if committed in a declared disaster emergency area. The same third-degree offense covers detention facility staff, probation and parole officers, firefighters, EMS and rescue personnel, social workers, school employees and volunteers, and certain health care workers. Intentionally causing a peace officer to come into contact with bodily fluids is also third-degree assault.