Shocking Video Reveals Fatal Shooting of Kentucky Judge in Court Hearing
A preliminary hearing in Kentucky revealed harrowing footage of the tragic killing of District Judge Kevin Mullins, who was shot by former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines. The incident, which has rocked the local community, unfolded in the judge’s chambers last month. Stines, 43, appeared in court in a jail uniform, handcuffed, as prosecutors presented their case against him.
During the hearing, Judge Rupert Wilhoit determined there was probable cause to refer the first-degree murder charge against Stines to a grand jury. Although Stines’ defense attorneys did not dispute the act of shooting Mullins, they suggested that he was under an “extreme emotional disturbance” at the time of the incident.
“I think they’ve established probable cause for manslaughter first, but not murder,” defense attorney Jeremy Bartley argued in court, indicating a potential strategy to mitigate the charges against Stines. At his arraignment last week, Stines had entered a not guilty plea to the murder charge.
Graphic Footage and Emotional Reactions
The courtroom was tense as prosecutors played a 20-second clip of surveillance footage from the judge’s chambers. The video showed Mullins crouching behind his desk as Stines shot him multiple times. Even as Stines appeared to prepare to leave the room, he noticed Mullins moving and fired several more shots. The graphic nature of the video provoked audible reactions from the gallery, where several individuals could be heard sobbing.
Despite the brevity of the clip shown in court, Kentucky State Police reported that the full recording of the interaction was much longer and contained crucial moments leading up to the shooting.
A Lunch Before Tragedy
Prior to the shooting, Stines and Mullins had shared lunch with a group of individuals at a local restaurant. Detective Clayton Stamper, the only witness to testify at the hearing, indicated that there was no visible anger or conflict during their meal. However, a notable exchange did occur when Mullins allegedly asked Stines if they needed to meet privately in his chambers.
While the prosecution did not provide a clear motive for the shooting, Stamper mentioned that Stines was seen on surveillance video calling his daughter before the shooting and asking to see Mullins’ phone. Mullins complied, allowing Stines to use his phone.
According to the detective, Stines stood up and began shooting just moments after looking at the judge’s phone. The circumstances surrounding this exchange raised questions about the motivations behind Stines’ actions.
Post-Shooting Behavior and Statements
Immediately following the shooting, Stines surrendered to law enforcement. According to Stamper, when he was taken into custody, Stines made a confusing statement, claiming, “They’re trying to kidnap my wife and kid.” Despite the gravity of the situation, Stamper noted that Stines remained “mostly calm” upon their arrival.
“Basically, all he said was, ‘Treat me fair,’” Stamper recounted, indicating Stines’ mental state in the aftermath of the shooting.
The Community’s Reaction
The shooting of Judge Mullins has sent shockwaves through the Letcher County community, known for its close-knit relationships and small-town values. The courthouse in Whitesburg has become a somber focal point for reflection and mourning. The state has appointed a special judge to preside over the case, given that Mullins would normally handle preliminary hearings for crimes committed in Letcher County.
In a letter obtained by CNN affiliate WKYT, Stines formally resigned from his position as sheriff the day before the hearing. His attorneys stated that this decision was made to allow for a successor to take over the responsibilities of the sheriff’s office while Stines addresses the legal proceedings ahead of him.
The Potential Consequences
At his arraignment, Judge Wilhoit informed Stines that if convicted of first-degree murder, he could face the death penalty. The stakes are incredibly high as Stines prepares for a legal battle that could change the course of his life forever.
As the hearing unfolded, it became increasingly clear that the ramifications of this tragic event will extend beyond the courtroom. The loss of Judge Mullins, who served as a pillar of the local judicial system, has left a palpable void in the community. Friends, family, and colleagues are grappling with the loss, mourning not just a judge but a dedicated public servant who was committed to justice.
Conclusion
The unfolding story of Shawn “Mickey” Stines and the fatal shooting of Judge Kevin Mullins serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges within the law enforcement and judicial systems. As the legal process continues, the community watches closely, hoping for justice and healing in the wake of this senseless tragedy. The upcoming proceedings will not only address the actions of Stines but will also reflect the broader issues of mental health and emotional distress that can impact even those in positions of authority.
