Ex-Sheriff in Kentucky Facing Charges After Fatal Shooting of Judge

A former sheriff in Kentucky remains in a highly agitated mental state days following the shooting incident that resulted in the death of a district judge, according to court documents. Jail staff had to use pepper spray to manage his episodes of aggression during this period.

Shawn “Mickey” Stines, the ex-sheriff of Letcher County, is accused of fatally shooting Judge Kevin Mullins in his office nearly a year ago. Dramatic security footage shows Stines aiming and firing at Mullins in his chambers. Stines has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a public official.

Legal representatives have filed documents including grand jury testimonies that suggest Stines was in an extreme emotional disturbance before the attack. A social worker reported that Stines, at the time of his incarceration, appeared to be in a state of psychosis and was unaware of the charges against him, exhibiting episodes of aggression that required restraint.

According to court records, prior to the shooting, Stines asked multiple individuals to leave Mullins’ office. Footage indicates he moved around the room checking doors, then borrowed the judge’s phone before the shooting occurred. Prosecutors detailed the sequence of events, noting that Stines fired multiple rounds from his position behind Mullins, who was found with multiple gunshot wounds.

Investigations revealed Stines initially fired twice at Mullins, then continued firing as he left, including six additional shots from beneath the desk. Police also examined whether Mullins had any relation to Stines’ family but found no links or contact between them.

Following the incident, Stines resigned and is presently jailed without bond. Prosecutors are seeking to relocate the trial to ensure a fair process, though Stines’ defense has opposed the move, asserting a fair trial can still be held locally. A trial date has yet to be scheduled.