London Ky State Police Post 11

KSP detectives Harrell, Riley celebrate 40 years Were recognized with ceremony at Post 11   It's not a job, it is a career. That is how Kentucky State Police Detectives Colan Harrell and Bill Riley described their 40 years of service. The detectives, who entered the training academy in Sept.. 1969, were recognized at a ceremony Monday at Post 11 in London. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment," said Captain Lisa Rudinski, commander of Post 11, noting the men have served under 21 different police commissioners. Harrell and Riley received framed certificates and letters from Gov. Steve Beshear commending them for their hard work on behalf of the state. "It is an honor and blessing doing what you want to do for a living," Harrell said. While the technology and equipment has changed since they first joined the force — including computers, instant access to driver and vehicle records and better communications — the men agreed the job is essentially the same. "The work assignments are the same," Riley said. "You still have to be able to mix with people, develop sources and follow up on leads." In his time with the state police, Harrell estimated he has investigated between 125 and 150 murders. Riley, who works in the vehicle investigations division, said he could not even begin to count the number of cases he has worked. The men explained the work schedule is anything but 9 to 5 Monday through Friday. However, once you make the decision that it is more than a job, time flies by. Though the men have earned a major accomplishment in their careers, they emphasized it is not the end. "We are not here for the retirement or the money," Riley said. "It is the satisfaction of the job." Staff writer Dean Manning may be reached at sentinel-echo