LEXINGTON, KY – The Rowan County community is reeling after former paramedic Shane Peterman was charged with sex crimes in two separate cases. The charges, including second-degree rape in Rowan County and additional offenses in Fayette County, have raised serious concerns about trust in emergency responders.
Documents from the court indicate that Peterman’s alleged crime in Rowan County happened in February while he was in a position of authority. The victim was reportedly unable to give consent, a situation that has deeply unsettled the community.
Kristin Sparks, who was briefly married to Peterman in 2021, shared her distress over the charges. She described a disturbing comment Peterman made about her inability to testify against him, which raised red flags about his intentions.
Rowan County EMS has not confirmed Peterman’s employment status during the alleged incident. However, a fiscal court meeting video from last November shows Peterman being confirmed as a part-time paramedic, pending standard checks.
While in custody for the Rowan County case, Peterman faced additional charges in Fayette County. Authorities allege he assaulted a patient during a transport from Ohio to a Lexington hospital in May of the previous year. DNA evidence reportedly linked him to the crime, with results surfacing in June.
Sparks emphasized the importance of justice for everyone affected, not just the known cases. She expressed relief that the truth is emerging, hoping it will lead to accountability.
Rowan County EMS has refrained from commenting on the ongoing investigation. Peterman’s lawyer looks forward to addressing the charges in court, ready to defend his client.
As the case proceeds, the community is left grappling with the implications for their trust in emergency services.