Insanity Defense Planned for Kentucky Sheriff Charged with Judge’s Murder

Insanity Defense Planned for Kentucky Sheriff Charged with Judge’s Murder

The attorney representing former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines has announced intentions to pursue an insanity defense in the high-profile murder case involving District Judge Kevin Mullins. According to court records, Stines’ legal team aims to demonstrate that mental illness hindered his capacity to distinguish right from wrong at the time of the alleged crime.

Stines, aged 43, is expected to present expert testimony regarding his mental health as part of his defense strategy. His attorney, Jeremy Bartley, mentioned in a recent filing that both an insanity defense and a claim of extreme emotional disturbance would form the basis of Stines’ argument in court.

Details of the Incident

On September 19, Stines allegedly opened fire, fatally shooting Judge Mullins, aged 54, in his office. Eyewitness accounts along with surveillance footage reportedly show a harrowing scene, with the judge attempting to shield himself behind a desk as Stines discharged his weapon.

Following the incident, Stines faced a serious charge of murdering a public official. He entered a not guilty plea during his arraignment in November of 2023. The two men were known to have had a friendship spanning twenty years prior to this tragic event.

Ongoing Investigation and Possible Motives

As investigators continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the alleged murder, the motive remains largely unclear. Reports indicate that Stines was involved in a civil lawsuit concerning allegations of sexual abuse during the same month as the shooting. Additional details emerged from the Louisville Courier-Journal, highlighting that Stines had been deposed in connection with this case mere days prior to the incident.

In a prior case, a former deputy of Stines, Ben Fields, faced conviction in 2021 for multiple counts of sexual assault against a woman in the same judge’s chambers where the shooting occurred. Testimonies revealed that Fields exploited his position by forcing the woman to comply with his demands while she was under house arrest.

Stines was named in the civil lawsuit for allegedly exhibiting deliberate indifference regarding the training and supervision of Fields. This civil litigation is ongoing, contributing another layer of complexity to Stines’ current legal battles.

Investigative Insights and Findings

Further complicating the situation, the Kentucky State Police confirmed they are looking into additional allegations related to a separate sex scandal. Reports indicate that Stines and Mullins were observed reviewing each other’s cell phones shortly before the shooting. This detail raises questions about the relationship dynamics and possible tensions that may have existed between the two men.

During a preliminary hearing, Detective Clayton Stamper of the Kentucky State Police revealed that calls were made from both Stines’ and Mullins’ phones while in the judge’s office. Notably, these calls were directed to Stines’ daughter, adding to the intrigue surrounding the events leading up to the incident.

Reactions and Legal Proceedings

The community and legal experts closely monitor this case, recognizing its implications for law enforcement and public trust in the judicial system. The tragedy underscores the weight of responsibility borne by law enforcement officials and the potential consequences of their actions.

While Stines’ defense team prepares for the upcoming legal proceedings, public sentiment fluctuates as details continue to unfold. Attorney Bartley has yet to provide additional comments surrounding the case, leaving many questions unanswered.

Alongside the legal implications, the emotional toll this incident has taken on the families involved and the wider community remains significant. Many are grappling with the reality that a figure entrusted with upholding the law stands accused of such a grievous crime.

Looking Ahead

As the case progresses, Stines’ defense strategy will be closely watched both for its legal implications and its potential to set precedents in similar cases. The effectiveness of the insanity defense, if successful, may influence public perception regarding accountability and mental health in the justice system.

Fox News Digital has reached out to both Stines’ attorney and the prosecuting attorney, Jackie Steele, for further commentary on these proceedings as the case moves forward.

This unfolding narrative continues to spark discussions about legal responsibility, mental health, and the foundational principles of justice within society.

Contributions to this report have been made by Fox News’ Christina Coulter.