COVINGTON, Ky. – In just over a year since its creation, the Covington Police Department’s Community Liaison Unit has become a cornerstone of relationship building and community problem-solving across the city. 

Formed in August 2024, the Unit consists of Sergeant Brian Powers and Specialists Alex Rose and Josh Knott, a trio whose approach to policing is rooted in connection and long-term solutions. Rather than responding to problems only after they escalate, the officers work to address the root causes — whether that means connecting a struggling family to resources, helping stabilize a nuisance property, or mentoring students who may need a positive role model. 

“You know, typically as an officer, you're assigned to a beat, and you answer calls within that beat, you take the report, and then move on to the next call,” Specialist Alex Rose said. “Sometimes there are calls that need a little bit more investigating. Some people might need more resources, like elderly adults who may not have enough groceries or who don't have a way to get those groceries. We can help provide services for that.” 

The result is a different kind of policing. One that’s proactive instead of reactive, and personal instead of procedural. 

A Community Presence, Everywhere You Look 

The Community Liaison Unit is everywhere — and that’s by design. Between monthly neighborhood meetings, school programs, and special events, the officers attend dozens of community engagements every month, from Wallace Woods to Latonia to Botany Hills. 

They show up at school parades, “Trunk or Treat” events, mentoring sessions, and city celebrations. They sit in on every neighborhood association meeting across Covington, plus Code Enforcement meetings, collaborative planning sessions, and youth sports events. Their visibility isn’t just about showing the badge — it’s about showing they care. 

“There was a community meeting that I went to recently, where I met a little girl and her grandpa,” Rose said. “Then I was at an event at her school, and she remembered me. Then I would see her at community events, and she would remember me. So, it was cool to see that, and all the ways we’ve inserted ourselves to be more approachable to the community.” 

That approachability — being someone residents can talk to openly — is at the heart of what the Unit does. 

Going the Extra Step 

Specialist Josh Knott said the role allows him to go beyond the surface when helping people in need. 

“In this role, I'm able to follow up with individuals that may need help, and I can take that extra step to make sure I'm helping them,” Knott said. 

That “extra step” often means helping connect residents with social services, city departments, or nonprofit partners who can provide long-term assistance. It’s an approach that not only helps to resolve recurring issues — like nuisance properties or repeat calls — but also builds lasting trust between police and residents. 

Changing Perceptions, One Child at a Time 

For Sergeant Brian Powers, leading the Community Liaison Unit is personal. He recalls an experience from his childhood that shaped his view of law enforcement. 

“When I was a kid, I found a bike in a wooded area. My mom called the police, and we gave the bike to them,” Powers said. “The responding officer, rather than just coming and picking up the bike, took the time to talk to me. He let me in his cruiser. Let me play with lights, and it really began to change my outlook on the police.” 

Now, he hopes his team can create those same kinds of moments for the next generation. 

“For us to be able to have that opportunity to hopefully change the outlook of even one or two children — because a lot of times, they only see the police when it’s something negative — so if we’re able to change their outlook, that’s what we’re here for,” Powers said. 

A New Kind of Connection 

Whether they’re helping a resident navigate city services, mentoring students, or carving pumpkins at a community event, the officers in Covington’s Community Liaison Unit are redefining what it means to serve and protect. 

Their mission goes beyond enforcement — it’s about connection and commitment to the people who call Covington home. 

Residents can contact the Community Liaison Unit by email at communityliaisonpolice@covingtonky.gov or by phone at 859-292-2274.