It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude that the Bowling Green Police Department and the greater Kentucky community mourn the loss of Master Police Officer Dale Barbiea, Badge 211, who passed away on the morning of June 14, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. His untimely passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his colleagues, the community he served, and all those who were fortunate enough to know him. Officer Barbiea’s life and career were defined by selfless service, unwavering integrity, and deep compassion, qualities that earned him respect and admiration both within the Bowling Green Police Department (BGPD) and beyond.
Dale Barbiea’s journey into law enforcement began in January 2008 when he decided to dedicate his life to serving and protecting others. A Louisville native, Dale’s first role in policing took him to Jackson, Tennessee, where he began his career. However, it was in Bowling Green, Kentucky, that he would make his indelible mark. His commitment to the profession and the people he served led him to spend the majority of his law enforcement career with the Bowling Green Police Department, where he held several key roles and earned the trust and admiration of his colleagues and the community.
Throughout his 17 years of service, Dale Barbiea’s contributions to law enforcement were nothing short of exceptional. He served in various capacities, including as a Patrol Officer, K9 handler, and most notably, as the department’s longest-tenured Crisis Negotiator. It was in his role as a Crisis Negotiator that Dale truly shined, using his unique blend of empathy, calm demeanor, and communication skills to de-escalate volatile situations and help individuals in mental health crises. This role, which Dale often described as more of a calling than a job, earned him the prestigious honor of being named the Kentucky Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Officer of the Year in 2017, a well-deserved recognition of his dedication to the mental health and safety of his community.
While his work in law enforcement was remarkable, Dale Barbiea’s impact extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. Known for his humble and selfless nature, Dale was a man who always put others first. His colleagues in the department remember him as a mentor, a friend, and a true brother in blue. Dale was always the first to lend a hand when his fellow officers needed help, whether it was offering support with personal tasks like yard work or moving, or simply being there for someone in need. His unwavering loyalty and kindness extended to the children of the BGPD family, who affectionately referred to him as “Uncle Dale.” He would often spoil them, joke with them, and check in on them even during his final days.
But Dale Barbiea was not just a dedicated officer and mentor—he was also a man of great character, with a personality that left a lasting impression on everyone he met. His larger-than-life presence, infectious laugh, and love for storytelling made him unforgettable to those who had the pleasure of working alongside him. Dale’s stories about his love of bull riding and the rodeo world were legendary, and he often wore his championship belt buckles with pride, a symbol of his passion for the sport. His cowboy spirit—tough, loyal, and determined—carried through every aspect of his life and career, shaping the way he approached both his professional duties and personal relationships.
Outside of his work as a police officer, Dale Barbiea was known for his immense kindness and generosity. He was always willing to lend a hand to those in need, whether it was checking on elderly residents, delivering meals to struggling families, or quietly making home repairs without ever seeking recognition. His actions spoke volumes about the kind of person he was—a man whose heart was as big as his commitment to making his community a better place.
In addition to his personal kindness, Dale was also a passionate advocate for the people of Bowling Green, always striving to build a stronger, more compassionate community. His dedication to public service went beyond his professional work, and he made a difference in the lives of countless individuals who will forever be grateful for his support and guidance.
Dale Barbiea’s passing has sent shockwaves through the Bowling Green community, and tributes have poured in from all corners of the city, reflecting the profound impact he had on everyone who knew him. His family, friends, and colleagues remember him not only as a brave and dedicated officer, but also as a beloved figure whose warmth and generosity left a lasting legacy.
As the community mourns the loss of this extraordinary man, they also celebrate the countless lives he touched throughout his years of service. Dale’s work will continue to inspire future generations of officers, and his spirit of compassion and dedication will be remembered for years to come.
In honoring Dale’s memory, the Bowling Green Police Department and the entire community are left with a sense of deep gratitude for the life he lived and the difference he made. His passing is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve in law enforcement and the profound impact they have on the communities they protect. The legacy of Dale Barbiea, with his unwavering commitment to justice, kindness, and service, will continue to shape the future of the Bowling Green Police Department and inspire all who follow in his footsteps.
As we say goodbye to our beloved “Hoss,” we take solace in the knowledge that his spirit lives on through the many lives he touched. While his physical presence may be gone, his legacy will continue to inspire those who remain. Rest in peace, Dale Barbiea. Your dedication, kindness, and love will never be forgotten, and your impact on this world will resonate for generations to come. You will always be missed, but never forgotten.
