In a shocking incident that has left the state of Kentucky reeling, Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Mickey Stines has been arrested and charged with the murder of District Judge Kevin Mullins. The fatal shooting occurred on Thursday, September 19, 2024, inside Mullins’ chambers at the Letcher County Courthouse. According to multiple reports, the tragedy followed an argument between the sheriff and the judge, although the exact cause of the dispute remains unclear.
Authorities responded to the courthouse after receiving an emergency call around 3 p.m., where they found Judge Mullins, 54, suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Stines, 43, who had been elected sheriff in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, was immediately arrested by Kentucky State Police. He is now facing murder charges, and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office has appointed special prosecutors to handle the case.
Governor Andy Beshear condemned the incident, calling it an “unimaginable tragedy” and offering his prayers for a path to a “better tomorrow.” State officials have emphasized that the shooting was an isolated incident, and there is no threat to the public. However, the courthouse remains closed as the investigation continues.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the local judicial community. Judge Mullins was known for his commitment to reforming the criminal justice system, particularly advocating for drug treatment options for offenders. His death has left colleagues and local residents in mourning as they grapple with the senseless violence within their courthouse.
As the investigation unfolds, many questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding the nature of the argument that led to the fatal shooting. The case is expected to garner widespread attention in the coming days as Kentucky residents and legal professionals seek justice for the slain judge.
