Shawn “Mickey” Stines, the sheriff of Letcher County, Kentucky, has been charged with first-degree murder in the shooting death of District Judge Kevin Mullins. During his first court appearance, Stines entered a not-guilty plea and remains in jail without bond.
The arraignment took place remotely from the Leslie County Detention Center, approximately 100 miles from the courthouse where the incident occurred. Prosecutors did not present any evidence during this initial hearing, leaving the motive for the murder unclear.
The court session, presided over by Judge Rupert Wilhoit, did not include comments from Stines regarding the charges. The judge expressed doubts about Stines’ financial claims when he requested a court-appointed attorney, given his stated income of $115,000 as sheriff and ownership of two homes.
Public defender Josh Miller clarified that Stines is losing his position as sheriff, which would impact his financial status. A preliminary hearing is set for October 1 in Morgan County, a location removed from the crime scene.
Sheriff Mickey Stines Pleads Not Guilty to First-Degree Murder in Judge Kevin Mullins’ Death
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding Mullins’ death are ongoing. The shooting reportedly occurred in the judge’s chambers, although other individuals were present in the courthouse at the time.
According to Kentucky State Police Trooper Matt Gayheart, while cameras were located in the building, the investigation aims to interview all witnesses to piece together the events leading to the tragic incident. This case marks an unprecedented act of violence for the community, which has left residents in shock.
Before the shooting, Stines and Mullins shared lunch, underscoring the personal connections between the two men, both of whom were well-known figures in Letcher County.
Circuit Court Clerk Mike Watts expressed the community’s devastation, highlighting the loss of not just two public officials but also two friends. Stines was recently deposed in a federal lawsuit concerning allegations of misconduct involving a former deputy, which adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
In the aftermath of Mullins’ death, there are growing calls among residents, including local officials, for enhanced security measures at the courthouse. Current conditions allow access without metal detectors, a situation some view as “unacceptable.”
Mullins is remembered fondly in his obituary, highlighting his commitment to serving the community, and he is survived by his wife and two daughters. The loss has profoundly impacted the local justice system and community, leaving many seeking answers and justice in this tragic case.
