A Kentucky sheriff, Shawn “Mickey” Stins, is facing serious allegations, including the murder of a county judge. Legal representatives for Stins claimed that the state neglected to document a significant meeting between prosecutors and the Letcher County Grand Jury, which led to the indictment against him.
The court document revealed that this oversight might be critical, as the judge involved has stated that vital information from the Commonwealth of Kentucky was not disclosed. There are unanswered questions surrounding this meeting.
On September 19, 2024, Stins allegedly shot District Judge Kevin Mullins at the Letcher County Courthouse, marking a shocking event for the local community. Interestingly enough, the incident was captured by surveillance cameras.
Both Stins and Mullins have been respected figures in the area for many years. Stins’ attorneys, Jeremy and Kelly Bartley, indicated that the judge’s comments could clarify the situation regarding the shooting. They also mentioned that the ongoing civil lawsuit, in which Stins is a defendant, was not adequately addressed.
The attorneys also contend that the investigation, led by Clayton Stamper from the Kentucky State Police Department, is prejudiced, which they argue may affect Stins’ trial.
Allegations of sexual abuse have cast a shadow over the Letcher County Court. Just days before the shooting, Stins had stepped down from a civil lawsuit against his former deputy, Ben Fields, who is currently imprisoned for rape.
Jeremy Bartley shared that Stins felt threatened and was concerned for the well-being of his wife and daughter during the proceedings. He stated, “On the day of the shooting, my client had been trying to reach his family and truly believed they were in danger.” There was pressure on him regarding what to say during court proceedings.
Bartley expressed that Stins had been cautious during depositions, feeling the weight of the situation and worried about discussing court matters openly.
Following the shooting, body camera footage showed Stins appearing extremely distressed while interacting with law enforcement. He pleaded for fairness, expressing fear for his life as officers questioned him.
Despite the gravity of the situation, some experts have labeled Stins’ defense as “frivolous.” Bartley has indicated plans to proceed with a defense strategy, emphasizing elements of his client’s mental state during the incident.
Outreach for comments has been made to both Bartley and the prosecutor, Jackie Steele, regarding the ongoing case.
