Department of Corrections
Simpson Promoted to Warden at KSP

Frankfort, KY – Kentucky Department of Corrections Commissioner John D. Rees today announced the appointment of Thomas L. Simpson as warden of the Kentucky State Penitentiary in Eddyville. Simpson spent 16 of his 24 years in Corrections at the Western Kentucky Correctional Complex. Beginning Sept. 1, he will head the state’s only maximum-security institution and the prison where the Death Row unit is housed.

Simpson replaces Warden Glenn Haeberlin who retires on Sept. 1 after 30 years with the Department of Corrections.

“Tom Simpson is a seasoned Corrections professional – and someone who is ready to take over the significant responsibility of the state’s only maximum security prison,” said Rees. “He is a true professional and he will continue the skilled leadership and management that’s been shown by Warden Haeberlin.”

Simpson began his career in 1980 as recreation director at the penitentiary. While at KSP, he also served as procedures development specialist and administrative specialist principal. In 1987, he transferred to WKCC first as procedures development specialist and then was later promoted to deputy warden. Simpson transferred back to KSP as deputy warden in charge of programming and medical services in 2002 before being promoted to Warden at WKCC in May 2004. His service career also includes a six-month stint as warden at WKCC in 1998. He has received numerous awards throughout his career for distinguished service. Simpson holds memberships in the American Correctional Association (ACA), North American Association of Wardens and Superintendents (NAAWS) and the Kentucky Council on Crime and Delinquency (KCCD).

A native of Lawrenceburg, he is a graduate of Murray State University. He and his wife Cindy and their children Alli and Will live in Kuttawa.