CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
GEORGETOWN — A man charged with the 2023 murder of Scott County Sheriff’s Deputy Caleb Conley will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of parole, Attorney General Russell Coleman announced Jan. 29.
Deputy Conley, 35, was shot and killed during a traffic stop on Interstate 75 in Georgetown on May 22, 2023. A four-year veteran of the Scott County Sheriff’s Department, he had previously served eight years in the U.S. Army.
Steven Sheangshang, 47, pleaded guilty Jan. 29 to 14 felony charges stemming from two separate cases in Scott and Fayette counties. He got a sentence of life in prison without parole, plus 70 years.
The Attorney General’s Office prosecuted Sheangshang for crimes in Scott County, including the murder of a police officer, robbery, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, and two counts of wanton endangerment. Fayette County Commonwealth’s Attorney Kimberly Baird prosecuted additional charges, including felony assault, robbery, gun offenses and burglary.
During the sentencing, Conley’s family delivered victim impact statements. He leaves behind his wife, Rachel, two children and his parents, Jolene and Bill.
“Deputy Conley gave his life in service to this Commonwealth and our nation,” Attorney General Coleman said. “We honor his sacrifice and stand by his family in their grief. This case should also send a clear message: as long as I’m Attorney General our office will zealously collaborate with our law enforcement partners to ensure anyone who takes the life of a Kentucky law enforcement officer will face the maximum punishment.”
Authorities said Deputy Conley had pulled over Sheangshang’s vehicle in connection with outstanding felony warrants. As Conley approached the rear bumper, Sheangshang rolled down his window and shot him, killing him within seconds. Sheangshang then fled the scene, broke into a home, held a couple at gunpoint, and stole their vehicle. Later that day, he shot and seriously wounded a man in Fayette County before stealing another vehicle.
“By vigorously prosecuting the violent crimes committed in Fayette County, we not only helped deliver justice for Scott County Deputy Caleb Conley, but also for David DiLeonardo who was shot and nearly killed by the same weapon used to kill Deputy Conley.”
Former Attorney General Daniel Cameron initially took up the Scott County case, and Coleman continued the prosecution upon taking office in 2024.
“The men and women of the Scott County Sheriff’s Department continue to mourn our fallen brother, Deputy Caleb Conley,” said Scott County Sheriff Jeremy Nettles. “His example of courageous service and selfless sacrifice set a high standard that we work to meet every single day. That’s how we can honor his memory as we protect and serve this community.”