Surveillance Footage Captures Moments Before Kentucky Sheriff’s Fatal Shooting of Judge
Fox News Digital has obtained surveillance footage that reveals the events leading up to the tragic shooting of former Letcher County Sheriff Sean “Mickey” Stins. On September 19, 2024, Stins and Judge Kevin Mullins, who knew each other for years, were seen interacting in a judge’s chamber before the incident.
As depicted in the video, taken from Mullins’ office, the two, along with friends and colleagues, were having lunch at the Street Side Grill & Bar, which is close to the courthouse. They appeared to be engaged in lively conversation for over 12 minutes before heading to the judge’s office.
Shortly after entering Mullins’ room, Stins cleared it of others to have a private conversation with the judge. Body language expert Susan Constantine noted Stins seemed anxious, fidgeting and frequently pocketing his hands. She observed that Mullins appeared unbothered and largely unaware of the tension in the exchange.
Over the next few minutes, their private discussion continued. Stins reportedly locked the door before the situation escalated. Constantine described Stins as wanting to engage in a conversation, but something shifted, possibly unsettling for Mullins.
During this interaction, Mullins handed his phone to Stins, which has sparked intense speculation, especially after Stins allegedly made an unanswered call before returning the device. Moments later, the shooting occurred, resulting in Mullins’ death.
Constantine commented that the situation seemed miscalculated from Mullins’ perspective, mentioning he only recognized the threat seconds before the shooting. She emphasized the abrupt change in the atmosphere, with Mullins confused and gesturing dismissively before instinctively raising his hands in defense.
Lawyer Discusses Stins’ Background
Stins’ attorney, Jeremy Bartley, provided insights into the dynamics leading up to the fateful event. He claimed that Stins had been trying to contact his daughter and felt pressure during the day, claiming that he believed his family was in danger. Bartley detailed that there had been a recent civil suit involving sexual assault allegations against a former sheriff, which added to the tense atmosphere in the judge’s chamber.
Bartley expressed that Stins and Mullins, while familiar with one another, were not close friends, emphasizing their relationship was strictly professional. The turbulent emotional state of both parties is highlighted as central to understanding the grave outcome of their encounter.
With Stins facing a charge of first-degree murder of a public servant, Bartley is preparing a defense that describes the incident as impulsive rather than premeditated. Meanwhile, the prosecution remains tight-lipped regarding the case’s developments.
