by Matthew Glowicki , The Courier-Journal –

The commissioner of the state’s department of corrections has abruptly resigned after a little more than a year in the position.

Rodney Ballard, commissioner since March 2016, left to pursue a “private sector venture,” according to a statement by the Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet, which includes the Department of Corrections.

 

“We thank him for his service and will immediately begin our search for a permanent replacement,” the statement read.

Deputy Commissioner Jim Erwin will oversee operations until a replacement is found.

Further details were not provided. A call to corrections spokeswoman Lisa Lamb was not immediately returned Tuesday.

State records indicate Ballard’s yearly salary was $132,160.

 

The 17-year veteran of the Kentucky State Police has held a variety of corrections positions, including posts as chief deputy of the Kenton County Detention Center and director of the Division of Community Corrections in Lexington, according to his online biography.

Ballard’s departure comes amid widespread crowding at both state prisons and county jails.

Reporter Matthew Glowicki can be reached at 502-582-4989 or [email protected]. Reporter Morgan Watkins contributed to this report.