FRANKFORT, KY – Attorney General Russell Coleman announced Thursday the Office's Department of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Special Victims Unit Director Matthew Hedden was presented with the U.S. Secret Service's highest honor at a ceremony in the Kentucky State Capitol Rotunda. Director Hedden received the Secret Service's award in recognition of his long history of outstanding collaboration with the federal agency.
As head of DCI's Special Victims Unit, Director Hedden investigates cases of exploitation, trafficking and child sex abuse. He has served with DCI for nearly a decade, following his retirement from the Anchorage Police Department. He has also served as a Task Force Officer with the U.S. Secret Service since 2018.
"For nearly 10 years, Director Hedden has brought a passion and a level of excellence to some of the toughest investigations imaginable in DCI. For these children, their families, and countless others, Director Hedden and his team have made a real and lasting impact on their safety and wellbeing," said Attorney General Coleman. "On behalf of all Kentuckians, it's a sincere privilege to congratulate Director Hedden."
"It's an honor to be recognized with this prestigious award," said DCI Division Director Hedden. "I'm grateful to the Secret Service for this recognition, to Attorney General Coleman and my DCI colleagues and above all to my family for their support."
"The Director's Award isn't given lightly. It's a high distinction that Director Hedden has certainly earned during his extraordinary career of collaboration and achievement in law enforcement," said U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Robert L. Holman. "Director Hedden has been absolutely integral in our task force and our investigations to catch predators and help put an end to child exploitation. We are grateful for our partnership with the Office of the Attorney General for Kentucky and our shared mission to keep our community safe."
Earlier this year, Director Hedden testified before the General Assembly in support of a counter exploitation law that enhanced penalties for the distribution of child sex abuse material and directed that those convicted of these crimes must serve at least 85% of their sentence.
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