Shocking Incident in Whitesburg: Sheriff Charged with Judge’s Murder
WHITESBURG, Kentucky – The small community of Whitesburg is reeling after a tragic incident that left District Judge Kevin Mullins dead and Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines facing murder charges. Just hours before the fatal shooting, the two men had met for a casual lunch and engaged in light-hearted conversation, a witness reported.
Community in Shock
Circuit Clerk Mike Watt was present to witness the lunch meeting between Mullins and Stines on Thursday, recalling the encounter as typical and friendly. “We were kind of joking around about national politics,” Watt said. He also asked the sheriff about a recent conference he attended. Following the lunch, the mood shifted dramatically when Stines, 43, allegedly shot Mullins, 54, in his chambers at the courthouse.
Kentucky State Police have stated that the shooting occurred around 3 PM after an argument took place between the two men. Very few details have emerged about what was said during this argument. Moments after the shots were fired, emergency calls reported the sounds of gunfire. Authorities found Judge Mullins with multiple gunshot wounds and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Community Mourning
The news of Mullins’ death spread quickly, leaving the community in disbelief. “The whole county is just devastated,” Watt reflected. “We’ve not only lost our sheriff and district judge, but I’ve lost two personal friends.” As the investigation unfolds, many are searching for answers about what led to such a violent act.
Stines was arrested at the courthouse and is now in custody, facing a charge of first-degree murder. His first court appearance is scheduled for September 25 in Carter County. The sheriff’s duties included ensuring the safety of judges, making the allegations even more shocking for local residents.
Flags at Half-Staff
As the community grapples with the loss, funeral arrangements for Judge Mullins have been set, with services planned for Sunday in Jenkins, Kentucky. In a gesture of respect, flags at all Kentucky Court of Justice facilities will be flown at half-staff through Monday.
Former mayor Garnard Kincer Jr. expressed his shock and sadness over the judge’s death. “He was kind, he wanted to help people, and he spent most of his career doing that,” Kincer said, highlighting Mullins’ dedication to public service. The judge was known for his efforts in addressing Kentucky’s opioid crisis, working tirelessly to provide treatment for those in need.
A Dark Cloud Over Letcher County
The impact of the shooting has cast a dark cloud over the small town. “It’s been a like a big cloud, dark cloud over us that we don’t deserve,” Kincer remarked. Residents are concerned about how this tragic incident will reflect on their community, even as they come together to support one another in this difficult time.
Matt Butler, the commonwealth’s attorney for the county, has also recognized the deep connections within Letcher County. “If you knew Letcher County, you would know that families stay tightly connected at all times,” he said, underscoring the solidarity felt among residents, particularly during times of tragedy.
Investigation Underway
The state police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including reviewing security footage from the courthouse and interviewing witnesses. “We know that it was an argument between the two that led up to the shooting,” Trooper Matt Gayheart said at a press conference, indicating that while details are still emerging, this incident represents the first tragedy of its kind for the county.
Stines had been involved in a federal lawsuit just before the shooting, related to a former deputy’s alleged misconduct. However, it is currently unclear how this lawsuit may be connected to the murder charge he now faces. Neither Stines nor his legal representation has made any official statements regarding the charges.
Community Resilience
The close-knit community of Letcher County is now left to mourn Mullins, whose commitment to improving lives through justice was well known. His contributions, including efforts to assist people facing substance use disorders, will likely be remembered as vital parts of his legacy.
As residents await further information from the ongoing investigation, many hope for answers while also seeking solace in their shared grief. The situation remains tense, and the implications of this tragic event will surely echo throughout the community for years to come.
