Sheriff to Meet KHSAA Officials over Alleged 14th Region Betting

Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle told WYMT he will meet with Kentucky High School Athletic Association officials in December after receiving information he described as specific about possible betting on high school basketball in the 14th Region. The sheriff made the disclosure on the Perry County Sheriff’s Office, KY Facebook page on November 26, saying he had been advised several weeks earlier about the matter.

“Several weeks ago I was advised of specific information regarding betting on High School basketball games in the 14th Region.” Engle attached a photo of an email dated Nov. 3, 2025 and said he attempted to schedule a confidential meeting with KHSAA Commissioner Julian Tackett to allow the association to monitor specifics. Engle emphasized that the information was specific, and not a widespread report alleging misconduct by region officials. He also told WYMT that no criminal investigation was open as of Nov. 26.

The KHSAA confirmed receipt of an email from the sheriff and said the association has arranged a meeting. “The Commissioner received a nonspecific email from Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle requesting a meeting to discuss, ‘Some concerns I have been informed of relating to 14th region high school sports.’ We have that meeting scheduled in early December.” The association noted that its regular high school basketball schedule begins on Dec. 1, tightening the timeline for any monitoring or remedial actions.

For Perry County residents, the case highlights institutional roles and responsibilities. Law enforcement has signaled a willingness to alert governing athletic bodies when tips arise, while the KHSAA will need to determine whether additional oversight, game monitoring, or investigation is warranted. Local coaches, school administrators, parents, and athletes face potential reputational effects even as formal inquiries remain absent.

The public interest element intersects with local governance. Engle, who is set to retire as sheriff on Dec. 31, 2026 and who earlier filed then withdrew a campaign for Perry County Judge Executive, stated that his post was not politically motivated. As the scheduled meeting approaches, transparency about findings and any subsequent actions will be important to maintain public confidence in school athletics and to give citizens a clear understanding of how regional sports are safeguarded against illicit betting.