Defense for Sheriff Who Allegedly Killed Judge Argues It Wasn’t Planned

Defense for Sheriff Who Allegedly Killed Judge Argues It Wasn't Planned

The defense for Sheriff Shawn Stines claims the alleged shooting of Judge Kevin Mullins was a crime of passion rather than premeditated murder.

At a Glance

  • Sheriff Shawn Stines is accused of killing Judge Kevin Mullins in his chambers.
  • The defense argues it was a crime of passion, advocating for manslaughter charges.
  • A court video shows Stines shooting Mullins multiple times.
  • The incident shook the community, leaving residents in disbelief.

Incident Overview

Shawn “Mickey” Stines, a sheriff from Kentucky, faces accusations for the fatal shooting of District Judge Kevin Mullins within the Letcher County Courthouse. Currently, he is facing a first-degree murder charge.

However, legal representation for Stines now contends the act occurred in the “heat of passion,” with the potential charges being downgraded to manslaughter. This standpoint emerges amidst a community reeling from shock over the sudden tragedy and loss.

A video introduced during the trial vividly depicted Stines shooting Judge Mullins repeatedly. This portrayal came despite Stines’ later attempt to plead not guilty to the murder charges, claiming extreme emotional disturbance led to the act.

Complicated Relationships and Timeline

Stines once worked as a bailiff under Judge Mullins, and they had a history of camaraderie and cooperation. On the day of the incident, both reportedly shared a meal with others before retreating into the judge’s private chambers. Court records indicate an unsettling argument between them, although the exact details remain undisclosed.

Before their emotional confrontation, Stines and Mullins were seen making phone calls. Stines reportedly attempted to contact his daughter using both his and Mullins’s mobile devices, adding an intricate layer to their interaction before the devastating event.

Community Shock and Legal Proceedings

The shooting has left a pronounced impact on the local community of Letcher County, described as nearly paralyzing residents with disbelief. Stines’s defense emphasizes the emotional turmoil he purportedly faced leading up to the incident and states the act was a response to pressing emotional pressures.

“We’re all in state of shock over it,” Mullins’ friend and former mayor of Jenkins Garnard Kincer Jr. stated. “It practically immobilized us. We just can’t believe it happened.”

Following his arrest, Shawn Stines resigned from his position, later surrendering without resistance and being detained elsewhere to prevent community unrest. Understandably, the case has attracted considerable public interest. A judge has determined enough evidence exists for grand jury proceedings to further review the circumstances that led to Mullins’s tragic death.

Sources

  1. Lawyer for Sheriff Who Killed Judge Says It Wasn’t Planned, Will Use ‘Extreme Emotional Disturbance’ Defense
  2. Kentucky sheriff charged in judge’s murder did not plan killing, caught in ‘heat of passion’: lawyer