Whitesburg, KY—The former Letcher County Sheriff accused of the courthouse murder of a District Court judge has pleaded not guilty, citing a heat-of-passion defense amidst a complex backdrop of legal disputes.
According to Fox News, Shawn "Mickey" Stines' defense in the murder of Judge Kevin Mullins could hinge on details from a separate sex abuse lawsuit deposition.
On a calm Monday, Shawn "Mickey" Stines, the former Letcher County Sheriff, stood before a courthouse—the same where the alleged murder occurred this past September—and entered a not-guilty plea for the killing of District Court Judge Kevin Mullins.
Mullins was fatally shot in his chambers in an incident that was captured on courtroom video, bringing immediate shock and grief to the community. Attorney Jeremy Bartley, representing Stines, argues that the shooting was a result of a sudden emotional disturbance rather than premeditated murder.
Stines had attended a deposition earlier that month related to a lawsuit accusing a deputy under his command of sexual misconduct, which occurred within the courthouse's confines. This deposition is now seen as pivotal in explaining Stines' state of mind and possible motivations on the day of the shooting. Attorney Bartley emphasized the complexity of the case and the importance of this context: "I do believe that that is a piece. This is a large story."
Bartley also articulated his positioning regarding the nature of the shooting, suggesting that Stines reacted in the heat of passion. In court statements, he hinted that this emotional disturbance could reduce the level of culpability from murder to manslaughter.
Details from the investigation by the Kentucky State Police bring further layers to the day's events. Detective Clayton Stamper divulged aspects of Stines’ behavior right after the shooting, noting his calm demeanor while stating, "Treat me fair." The peculiar interaction involving Stines and Mullins having lunch together and the subsequent use of each other's phones before the shooting adds to the mysterious circumstances.
Prosecuting Attorney Jackie Steele has yet to decide if the death penalty will be sought, confirming that no further charges beyond the murder of a public official are expected. Meanwhile, the community is left reflecting on the tragic event that has occurred in its midst.
Given the severity of the charges, including the death of a well-known public official, Stines was swiftly denied bond. During his arraignment, the impact of the accusations was palpable, reflected in the court's decision to keep him detained pending trial.
Further complicating Stines' legal troubles is the ongoing lawsuit stemming from allegations against Deputy Ben Fields, who was convicted and jailed for sexual misconduct. Attorney Ned Pillersdorf for the plaintiffs noted Stines’ “odd demeanor” during the deposition connected to this case, suggesting the emotional toll it might have had on the sheriff.
Stines' startling claim during his arrest that "They're trying to kidnap my wife and kid" also remains an enigmatic part of the story, deepening the intrigue and uncertainty surrounding his motives.
The murder has sent ripples through the Letcher County community, leaving friends and colleagues of Judge Mullins devastated. Garnard Kincer Jr., a friend of Mullins, expressed the collective shock: "It practically immobilized us. We just can't believe it happened."
This harrowing event, combined with its convoluted legal entanglements, continues to capture the attention of the public and media alike. As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the unfolding courtroom drama, looking for clarity in this complex web of justice, emotion, and tragedy.
