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Judge Denies Dismissal of Murder Charge Against Ex-Sheriff

12/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

A judge has denied the motion to dismiss the murder indictment against former Kentucky Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines, who is accused of killing District Judge Kevin Mullins in September 2024.
Stines has been jailed without bond since the incident and will have a bond hearing, although his defense attorneys cannot discuss a sealed mental health evaluation.
Stines' lawyers argue he experienced extreme emotional disturbance and plan to pursue an insanity defense, while prosecutors assert he is not entitled to bail due to the severity of the charges.
If convicted, Stines could face the death penalty.

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Story summary

A judge has denied the motion to dismiss the murder indictment against former Kentucky Sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines, who is accused of killing District Judge Kevin Mullins in September 2024.
Stines has been jailed without bond since the incident and will have a bond hearing, although his defense attorneys cannot discuss a sealed mental health evaluation.
Stines' lawyers argue he experienced extreme emotional disturbance and plan to pursue an insanity defense, while prosecutors assert he is not entitled to bail due to the severity of the charges.
If convicted, Stines could face the death penalty.