In a shocking case that has gripped a small Appalachian community, Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines, 43, pleaded not guilty to the murder of District Judge Kevin Mullins, 54, in a Kentucky courthouse. Stines, who is accused of fatally shooting Mullins in his chambers on September 19, appeared in court via video on Wednesday, September 25, wearing a gray jail uniform and showing no emotion during the brief hearing.
The fatal incident occurred following an alleged argument between the sheriff and the judge inside the courthouse in Whitesburg, a town near the Virginia border. According to the Kentucky State Police, Stines shot Mullins multiple times, leaving him dead at the scene.
Kentucky sheriff arrested for murder after shots are fired in a judge’s chamber. What could push a sheriff to do that? pic.twitter.com/U2wRHTcmQL
— Killer Bee Tactical (@realPurePower34) September 22, 2024
Stines surrendered shortly after the shooting without resistance and was subsequently charged with first-degree murder. Despite widespread speculation, no clear motive for the killing has been publicly revealed by authorities.
Judge Mullins, who had served the county since his appointment in 2009, was well-regarded for his work in helping individuals struggling with substance abuse.
A Kentucky sheriff has been charged with first-degree murder for allegedly shooting and killing Kentucky District Judge Kevin Mullins at the Letcher County Courthouse, officials say.
ABC News’ Faith Abubey reports. pic.twitter.com/n8JgjbW5UW
— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) September 21, 2024
Both Mullins and Stines were reportedly friends and had worked together on efforts to combat the opioid crisis in the region. The sudden and violent end to their professional relationship has left many in the tight-knit community reeling.
The case has been further complicated by the involvement of a special prosecutor and the Kentucky Attorney General's office, indicating the high stakes and sensitivity of the matter. Stines is being held in another county for his safety, given the intensity of the local reaction to the crime.
Carter County District Judge H. Rupert Wilhoit III presided over the arraignment, which took place via video link. The judge informed Stines that the case could potentially carry the death penalty if he is convicted. No bond was set during the hearing. The next phase of the legal proceedings will begin with testimony on October 1.
Residents of Whitesburg remain in shock, as both the sheriff and the judge were respected figures in the community. Many are left questioning how a longstanding friendship between two public servants could result in such a devastating outcome. As the legal process unfolds, the town is searching for answers, while authorities continue their investigation.
