On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, Courier Journal reported that the mental state of former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines will play a crucial role in his defense against charges of shooting Judge Kevin Mullins. The incident occurred on September 19, 2024, inside Mullins’ courthouse office, leading to Stines’ arrest and subsequent custody since the shooting. He has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder of a public official.
Stines’ attorney, Jeremy Bartley, indicated that the defense will focus on the concept of “extreme emotional disturbance.” In a court notice filed last week, Bartley stated that expert evidence regarding Stines’ mental health will be introduced during the trial. This evidence is expected to address issues related to a potential mental illness or condition that could affect Stines’ guilt and the associated punishment.
Bartley expressed optimism about the existence of evidence that may support a claim of Stines not being criminally responsible for the shooting. However, he refrained from disclosing further details as the legal process unfolds. During a recent hearing on January 17, prosecutor Jackie Steele indicated that the discovery process, including necessary testing, could take an additional four to six months before the case proceeds to trial.
Legal protocol requires attorneys to inform the state ahead of time if they intend to present a mental health defense. Bartley noted that while formal notification is typically required later in the proceedings, they opted to provide this information early to facilitate an evaluation at the Kentucky Correctional Psychiatric Center.
The shooting, which took place in Mullins’ private chambers, has left the community in shock. Residents of Whitesburg, a town of approximately 2,000 inhabitants, reported that Stines and Mullins had a longstanding friendship. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear; however, evidence presented during a prior court appearance suggested that Stines attempted to contact his daughter shortly before the incident, using both his personal phone and Mullins’ phone.
Additionally, video footage released by Court TV showed Stines and Mullins engaged in conversation earlier on the day of the shooting, with no visible signs of conflict. This footage has led Bartley to assert that the shooting was not premeditated.
As the case continues, a date for the next court hearing has yet to be established, and both legal teams prepare for the upcoming proceedings in Letcher Circuit Court. The community and legal observers alike await further developments in this high-profile case involving a former sheriff and a respected judge.
Source: Courier Journal
