A Kentucky sheriff is currently behind bars after a district judge was found dead in his chambers with multiple gunshot wounds.
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During a press conference, Kentucky State Police Trooper, Matt Gayheart, revealed that law enforcement officials received a call about shots being fired inside the Letcher County courthouse shortly before 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 19.
When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered Letcher County and District Judge Kevin Mullins dead in his chamber. “Life-saving measures were taken; however, were unsuccessful,” Gayheart shared. “He was pronounced deceased on scene by Letcher County Coroner’s Office.”
Gayheart also shared that a preliminary investigation revealed Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stine allegedly shot and killed the judge “following an argument inside the courthouse.”
Gayheart stated the investigators have not learned of a motive and the investigation is ongoing. However, he did confirm that the Kentucky sheriff was arrested “without incident” shortly after officers arrived.
“Sheriff Stines was placed under arrest and transported to a correctional facility,” Gayheart explained. “He was charged with one count of murder in the first degree.”
The Letcher County website confirmed that Mullins presided over the 47th District Judicial District. The court oversees “ordinances, misdemeanors, violations, traffic offenses, probate of wills, arraignments, felony probable cause hearings, small claims involving $2,500 or less, civil cases involving $5,000 or less, voluntary and involuntary mental commitments and cases relating to domestic violence and abuse.”
Governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) about the shocking incident. “Sadly, I have been informed that a district judge in Letcher County was shot and killed in his chambers this afternoon,” he wrote. “There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow.”
Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter Releases Statement Following Death of Judge, Sheriff Arrest
Along with Beshear, Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter released a statement about Judge Mullins’ death and the arrest of the sheriff.
“My prayers are with [Mullins’] family and the Letcher County community as they try to process and mourn this tragic loss,” VanMeter stated. “I ask for respect and privacy on their behalf.”
VanMeter also shared that the court will continue to monitor the situation. “Out of respect for the ongoing investigation, we are unable to share further details. We are committed to supporting law enforcement in their efforts and will avoid any actions that could impede their important work. Our priority at this time is the well-being and safety of the Kentucky Court of Justice Family.”
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman also wrote on X, “Following the deadly shooting in Letcher County, our Office will collaborate with Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit Jackie Steele as special prosecutors in this case. We will fully investigate and pursue justice,”