Sheriff Pleads Not Guilty in Murder Case of Kevin Mullins

A Kentucky sheriff faces first-degree murder charges for allegedly shooting a judge, sending shockwaves through the small community of Whitesburg.

At a Glance

Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder.
Judge Kevin Mullins was fatally shot in the Letcher County Courthouse.
The incident occurred following an argument, with the motive still undisclosed.
A recent federal lawsuit and deposition may be connected to the shooting.
The case has deeply affected the community and raised questions about courthouse security.

Sheriff Charged in Shocking Courthouse Shooting

Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines, also known as Mickey, has been charged with first-degree murder in the fatal shooting of Judge Kevin Mullins. The incident, which occurred on September 19 at the Letcher County Courthouse in Whitesburg, southeastern Kentucky, has left the community reeling. Sheriff Stines, 43, pleaded not guilty during a virtual arraignment, appearing from Leslie County where he is currently being held.

The shooting allegedly took place following an argument inside the courthouse, with Judge Mullins, 54, shot multiple times. He died at the scene. Stines surrendered to authorities without incident, but the motive behind the shooting remains undisclosed. The Kentucky State Police are leading the investigation into this tragic event that has shaken the local justice system to its core.

Kentucky sheriff pleads not guilty in fatal shooting of local judge https://t.co/UkDqRom8Y2

— John Solomon (@jsolomonReports) September 25, 2024

Legal Proceedings and Case Complexities

The case has already presented unique challenges, with several local officials recusing themselves due to personal connections. Matt Butler, the Letcher County commonwealth’s attorney, stepped aside, citing social and family ties to Judge Mullins. As a result, the Kentucky attorney general’s office and special prosecutor Jackie Steele are now handling the case.

The arraignment was conducted virtually before Carter County District Judge H. Rupert Wilhoit III, who is serving as a special judge for this case. Stines showed no emotion during the brief hearing and was represented by a public defender. The maximum punishment in this case could potentially be the death penalty, although decisions regarding capital punishment will be made at a later stage of the proceedings.

Underlying Tensions and Previous Lawsuit

A federal lawsuit filed in 2022 accused Sheriff Stines of failing to investigate allegations of abuse by one of his deputies in Judge Mullins’ chambers. Stines was deposed in connection with this lawsuit just three days before the shooting. However, it is unclear if there is any connection between these events.

The lawsuit claims that the courthouse had issues with women being targeted for extortion, and that Stines failed to adequately train and supervise his deputy. In response to these allegations, cameras were installed in Judge Mullins’ chambers and courtroom after 2022. Stines’ lawyer had argued that he was immune from the lawsuit due to his position as sheriff.

Community Impact and Calls for Resignation

Both Sheriff Stines and Judge Mullins were known for their community efforts, particularly in combating the opioid crisis. Judge Mullins had served as a district judge since 2009 and was well-liked in the community. The shooting has been described as an “unspeakable tragedy” that has deeply affected the small, tight-knit community of Whitesburg.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear is pushing for Stines’ resignation, citing state law for the removal of peace officers. Stines’ future as sheriff remains uncertain, with the possibility that he may soon lose his $115,000 annual salary. As the case unfolds, the community grapples with the loss of a respected judge and the shocking actions alleged against their sheriff, leaving many questions unanswered and a sense of disbelief in its wake.