A helicopter is flying patrols, a deputy is stationed full-time at the Stanley Volunteer Fire Department, and a boat is on standby for emergency calls over the coming days — all part of a proactive plan by the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office to protect residents as floodwaters threaten to cut off access to the area.
Sheriff Brad Youngman said the department began preparations after it became clear that U.S. 60, the primary route in and out of Stanley, was at risk of becoming impassable. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet put up barricades Thursday night in anticipation of water covering the roadway in the overnight hours. While the road technically remained open and passable Friday, DCSO is discouraging unnecessary travel through the area.
“We want to make sure that we don’t have to come back out here for a water rescue because someone didn’t take it seriously,” Youngman said.
Recognizing the potential for Stanley to be cut off entirely, DCSO has stationed a deputy at the Stanley Volunteer Fire Station to ensure continued law enforcement presence. The deputy will be able to respond to most calls by cruiser, but if conditions worsen, they’ll also be able to rely on a partnership with Daviess County Fire Department, which has staged a boat at the station in case of any water emergencies.
“We want people out here to know that we’re here and that we can help them if there’s an emergency,” Youngman said.
In a further show of support, a helicopter will be flying patrols over the area in the coming days. Piloted by Special Deputy Brandon Lanham, the aircraft is equipped with deputies on board who can respond in extreme emergencies. Youngman said the helicopter will be visible over the community as part of ongoing efforts to monitor the situation and maintain rapid response capability.
The department also deployed its drone unit on Thursday, both to test the reach and functionality of the equipment and to document conditions across the region. Youngman said having aerial footage could significantly improve response times if deputies need to reach homes by boat, and the visuals will serve as valuable data for future emergencies.
“Whether that information is needed when the water recedes here in a few weeks, or it’s needed to prepare for a similar event many years down the road, we need to be able to remember and kind of record what’s going on out here,” he said.
While the situation remains fluid, Youngman said the department is committed to staying ahead of the crisis.
“This is another way that we are showing our commitment to the people of Daviess County — to ensure that they do not feel forgotten during this difficult time,” he said.
DCSO generously allowed Owensboro Times to join one of the helicopter flyovers. You can watch a video from that ride here.
