Laurel County Sheriff John Root reports that the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office, in keeping pace with it's ever growing and changing needs, has created a new position within its ranks. The position is that of Lieutenant. The position entails that of ranking 3rd in the command structure, directly under the sheriff, and chief deputy.

The position required the following: (Shall have been a Deputy Sheriff of the Laurel County Sheriff's Office for a minimum of 60 months accumulated continuously without a break in service. And shall have held the rank of sergeant for no less than 24 months continuous service.)

Following a posting of the position, and those sergeants within the department that met the requirements, interviews were conducted by a panel which included both department personnel, and a civilian outside of the department –a selection was made and announced on Wednesday afternoon (1-31-2012). Sgt. Rodney Van Zant was selected and promoted to Lieutenant.

Lieutenant Rodney Van Zant is a native of Rockcastle County. His parents are :  Alma Van Zant, and the late Delmer Van Zant of Mt. Vernon, Ky. He has twelve years law enforcement experience including London Police Department, Corbin Police Department, Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Office, and Laurel County Sheriff’s Office. He has been a Sergeant 6 years. He is the team leader of Laurel County Sheriff’s Office newly created "Special Response Unit" (S.R.U.) . He resides in London.

His new duties will include: Ensuring that all members under his supervision carry out their assigned duties in accordance with the policy and procedures of the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office and applicable Kentucky State and Federal law in a professional manner. He is also the immediate supervisor over sergeants and all uniformed employees.