The legal defense team for a former Kentucky sheriff accused of fatally shooting a district judge is grappling with an extensive collection of evidence as the high-profile case continues.
Shawn “Mickey” Stines, a former Letcher County Sheriff, faces a murder charge in the death of Judge Kevin Mullins, who was shot in his chambers on September 19, 2024.
The case has drawn significant attention, with shocking details about the events and relationships surrounding the incident emerging as prosecutors build their case.
Defense Tackles Overwhelming Evidence
Appearing remotely during a court hearing, Stines’ defense attorney, Jeremy Bartley, revealed that his team is sifting through a “voluminous” amount of evidence.
Prosecutor Jackie Steele added that more evidence, including ongoing forensic tests, could take another four to six months to finalize.
Despite the lengthy process, the defense has hinted at plans to request a bond hearing, with Circuit Court Judge Christopher Cohron confirming that he would address the issue once scheduled.
A Shocking Crime Caught on Camera
The harrowing events were reportedly captured on video, showing Stines entering Judge Mullins’ chambers, drawing a weapon, and firing multiple shots.
Authorities allege that Stines asked for a private conversation with Mullins before an argument broke out, escalating to the fatal shooting.
Judge Mullins died on the scene.
Stines later surrendered to law enforcement and has been held in a separate Kentucky county jail.
Shortly after the incident, he resigned from his position as sheriff, marking the end of his career in law enforcement under the shadow of tragedy.
Complicated Ties and Controversial Allegations
Adding layers to the already complex case, Stines and Mullins were reportedly friends for over 30 years.
They were even seen dining together just hours before the shooting.
However, the relationship appears to have been strained by legal battles and scandals.
Just days before the shooting, Stines had been deposed in a federal lawsuit filed by Sabrina Adkins.
The lawsuit accused Mullins of engaging in a sex-for-favors scheme within his chambers.
It also implicated others, including former deputy Ben Fields, alleging that illicit encounters were filmed.
Bartley suggested that this deposition could play a significant role in understanding Stines’ state of mind.
Potential Consequences and Unanswered Questions
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, with law enforcement yet to confirm any specific reason for the crime.
If convicted, Stines faces the possibility of the death penalty.
As the defense team continues to piece together their argument, they’re expected to explore the complicated relationship between the former sheriff and the judge, as well as the deposition’s implications.
The tragic and shocking events have left a community searching for answers while the justice system works to unravel the truth behind this devastating incident.
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