Threats Emerge Against Parole Board Over Exantus Release Misunderstanding

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky State Police are investigating threats directed at members of the Kentucky Parole Board after misinformation regarding the release of Ronald Exantus circulated among the public. Exantus, who was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the 2015 murder of six-year-old Logan Tipton, was supposed to remain in prison according to the board’s unanimous decision on September 30.

Ladeidra N. Jones, chair of the Kentucky Parole Board, stated that despite voting for Exantus to stay incarcerated, board members have been threatened, with some having their personal addresses made public. “We are encouraging individuals to take these threats seriously and to prioritize factual information,” Jones said. “The board did not release Exantus. A law passed by the General Assembly did.”

Exantus was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the stabbing murder of Logan Tipton during a violent home invasion in Versailles. During the attack, Exantus also assaulted other family members. Although the Parole Board expressed a desire to keep him in prison, Kentucky law mandated his release on Mandatory Reentry Supervision, which falls outside the board’s authority.

All threats made against board members are being taken seriously as investigations continue. The Parole Board, along with the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, urges the public to cease the threats and to share only accurate information. Misinformation, especially in cases involving violent crimes, can have dangerous consequences.

The case has placed focus on the critical nature of accurate reporting, particularly as political violence rises. The Parole Board has shifted staff to remote working conditions for safety amid the ongoing threats.