On Friday, September 20, 2024, CNN reported that a Kentucky sheriff was arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of District Judge Kevin Mullins inside a courthouse. The incident occurred at the Letcher County courthouse in Whitesburg, where Judge Mullins, 54, was found with multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Kentucky State Police.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines shot Mullins following an argument in the judge’s chambers. Sheriff Stines has been charged with first-degree murder. As of the latest reports, it remains unclear whether Stines has secured legal representation.

Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow over the incident in a Facebook post, stating, “There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow.” The shooting took place while other individuals were present in the courthouse; however, no one else was in the judge’s chambers at the time, and no additional injuries were reported.

After the shooting, Stines surrendered to authorities without incident and is currently cooperating with the ongoing investigation. It is yet to be determined who will assume the role of sheriff following his arrest. Kentucky State Police Trooper Matt Gayheart noted that surveillance cameras in the courthouse would aid in the investigation, and all witnesses are being interviewed.

Trooper Gayheart described the community’s reaction to the shooting, stating, “This community is small in nature, and we’re all shook.” Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced that his office would collaborate with Jackie Steele, the commonwealth’s attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit, to act as special prosecutors for the case. Coleman assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and justice would be pursued.

In light of the tragic event, Kentucky court officials declared that all circuit and district courts, as well as the office of the circuit court clerk, would remain closed until further notice. The Kentucky Court of Justice acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and stated that it is in contact with law enforcement agencies, including the Kentucky State Police, to provide support during this difficult period.

Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter expressed his shock at the killing, noting that the court is “shaken” by the loss. He extended his prayers to Mullins’ family and the Letcher County community as they cope with the aftermath of this tragic event.

Matt Butler, the commonwealth’s attorney for Letcher County, announced he would recuse himself from the prosecution of Sheriff Stines due to a familial connection—his wife is the sister of Mullins’ wife. Butler stated, “We all know each other here,” emphasizing the close-knit nature of the community. He expressed concern for his children, who are mourning the loss of their uncle.

Judge Mullins had served on the 47th District Court since his appointment by former Governor Steve Beshear in 2009. He was subsequently elected and re-elected in 2010, 2014, and 2022. Prior to his judicial role, Mullins was an assistant commonwealth’s attorney in Letcher County, focusing on drug-related offenses.

Mullins was known for advocating substance abuse treatment within the justice system, beginning his efforts in 2010. His initiatives led to hundreds of individuals being directed to inpatient drug treatment centers. He collaborated with Addiction Recovery Care to enhance access to treatment, which was implemented in at least 50 counties across Kentucky. Furthermore, he was a founding member of an opioid recovery support team.

Sheriff Stines had been in office since being elected in 2018 and was re-elected in 2022. Earlier this month, he lauded the sheriff’s department for their achievements, particularly in drug enforcement, thanking the citizens of Letcher County for their support in catching criminals and combating drug-related issues.

 

 

Source: CNN