Shawn 'Mickey' Stines, the former sheriff of Letcher County, Kentucky, is facing charges of first-degree murder after allegedly shooting District Judge Kevin Mullins in his chambers. Stines' defense attorney, Jeremy Bartley, claims that the killing was not premeditated and that Stines was not in his right mind at the time of the incident.
During a preliminary hearing on Oct. 1, a video was played showing Stines shooting Judge Mullins multiple times while he was seated at his desk. The shooting reportedly continued even after Mullins fell to the floor. Stines and Mullins were described as longtime colleagues and friends.
According to Kentucky State Police Detective Clayton Stamper, the two men had lunch together before the shooting. Stamper testified that Judge Mullins had suggested meeting privately in his chambers, which may have triggered the violent incident.
Stamper also mentioned that Stines tried to call his daughter using Mullins' phone, indicating a possible motive related to what Stines saw on the judge's phone. Stines allegedly remained calm after the shooting and only requested to be treated fairly.
Stines claimed that he believed his wife and child were in danger of being kidnapped when he was taken into custody. The shooting has deeply impacted the community of Whitesburg, with residents expressing shock and disbelief over the tragic event.
Despite resigning as sheriff, Stines has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. A judge ruled on Oct. 2 that there was enough evidence to proceed with the case, signaling a lengthy legal process ahead.
