Chris Castlen, a U.S. Marine and retired Owensboro Police Department lieutenant with more than two decades of service to the community, has announced his candidacy for Daviess County Commissioner of the West District.
Castlen began his career as deputy jailer with the Daviess County Detention Center before joining OPD, where he retired in 2017. During his time as a law enforcement officer, Castlen served in multiple roles including patrol, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, member of the emergency response team and an instructor for many facets of the department.
He said it was his loyalty to his brothers and sisters in uniform that stirred Castlen to run for County Commissioner.
“Our first responders’ benefits in Daviess County were severely cut, resulting in lower take-home pay in a time when we are asking even more from them,” Castlen said. “In such a difficult market to recruit first responders, their pay, benefits and incentives should not only keep pace with surrounding communities, but they should lead the way for all other departments and organizations, in order for us to be able to recruit and retain the best talent.”
Castlen has held many jobs that required dedication and teamwork over the years — whether it was in the tobacco field, raising crops to pay for college, or putting on a uniform to serve the community.
“It is my commitment to make Daviess County citizens proud,” Castlen said. “With my proven leadership, my work ethic and ability to work with all people, I will work to find solutions even when there is a difference of opinion.”
Following his retirement, Castlen began a second career at Owensboro Health in human resources. He remains an active member of the Fraternal Order of Police, Kentucky Law Enforcement Assistance Program as a Strike Team member, and the Marine Corps League.
Castlen earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s of public administration from Western Kentucky University. He also holds a graduate certificate in criminal justice education from the University of Virginia and graduated from the FBI National Academy.
He and his wife Stacy, a teacher who has taught at Apollo High School and Owensboro High School, have been married for 25 years. They have three daughters, two in college and one in high school. He attends First Christian Church where he serves on outreach, as a Sunday school teacher, and on the church board.
“My wife and I were born and raised here and are proud to call this community home,” Castlen said. “I want to ensure that the young people here — including my daughters — can grow a life here and continue moving Daviess County forward to our fullest potential.”
