As used in KRS 16.186 to 16.195, unless the context requires otherwise:
(1) "Cabinet" means the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet;
(2) "Secretary" means the secretary of the cabinet;
(3) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of the Department of Kentucky State Police;
(4) "Officer" means any individual appointed to one (1) of the positions established by KRS 16.187 who has the powers of a peace officer;
(5) "Department" means the Department of Kentucky State Police; and (6) "Continuous service" for participation in and eligibility for the promotional process for each rank of commercial vehicle enforcement officer means:
(a) For sergeant, service as a commissioned officer that has not been interrupted by actual separation from the department, whether in the form of resignation, retirement, or termination;
(b) For lieutenant, service in grade as a sergeant that has not been interrupted by actual separation from the department, whether in the form of resignation, retirement, termination, or by demotion in accordance with KRS 16.192; and (c) For captain, service in grade as a lieutenant that has not been interrupted by actual separation from the department, whether in the form of resignation, retirement, termination, or by demotion in accordance with KRS 16.192.