Kentucky judge shot dead in courthouse by sheriff
Sheriff charged with murder after fatal shooting of judge in Kentucky
A judge was fatally shot in his chambers at a rural Kentucky courthouse on Thursday. Police stated that Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines has been charged with murder following the incident.
Preliminary investigations suggest Sheriff Stines shot District Judge Kevin Mullins multiple times after an argument inside the courthouse. Judge Mullins, who had served for 15 years, died at the scene. Sheriff Stines surrendered without resistance.
Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter expressed shock and stated that the court system was deeply affected by the incident. Letcher County’s judge-executive issued an order to close the county courthouse on Friday.
Judge Mullins, aged 54, was struck multiple times, according to Kentucky State Police. Sheriff Stines, 43, faces a charge of first-degree murder. The investigation is ongoing.
Governor Andy Beshear addressed the incident on social media, lamenting the prevalent violence and expressing hope for a better future. Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced that his office will work with a commonwealth’s attorney in the region as special prosecutors in the case.
What Other Media Are Saying
- NewsChannel 5 reports that a Kentucky sheriff has been charged with first-degree murder for shooting and killing a judge in their local courthouse, sparking a significant investigation and community response. (Read more)
- ABC30 reports on the shocking murder of Kentucky Judge Kevin Mullins by Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines, highlighting the ongoing investigation and community reaction. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to the judge in Kentucky?
Judge Kevin Mullins was shot and killed in his courthouse chambers.
Who shot the judge in Kentucky?
Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines shot Judge Kevin Mullins.
Why was the judge in Kentucky shot?
The shooting followed an argument inside the courthouse.
What was the reaction of Kentucky’s Chief Justice?
Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter said he was shocked and the court system was shaken.
What actions are being taken following the shooting?
The Kentucky Attorney General’s office will collaborate with a commonwealth’s attorney as special prosecutors.
