Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ex-Sheriff Admits to Courthouse Shooting; Faces Murder Charges

12/11/2025

35 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In September 2024, former Letcher County sheriff Shawn "Mickey" Stines admitted to shooting District Judge Kevin Mullins inside the courthouse.
Stines faces first-degree murder charges and is held without bond.
His defense seeks an insanity verdict, claiming he suffered extreme emotional disturbance and was in an active psychosis.
In a related civil case, Mullins' widow and children sue Stines for assault and battery and allege protection failures.

1 of 1

Story summary

In September 2024, former Letcher County sheriff Shawn "Mickey" Stines admitted to shooting District Judge Kevin Mullins inside the courthouse.
Stines faces first-degree murder charges and is held without bond.
His defense seeks an insanity verdict, claiming he suffered extreme emotional disturbance and was in an active psychosis.
In a related civil case, Mullins' widow and children sue Stines for assault and battery and allege protection failures.