Former Letcher County Sheriff Shawn 'Mickey' Stines is now facing the death penalty following the shocking murder of District Judge Kevin Mullins in his courthouse chambers.

On September 19, in a courtroom in Whitesburg, Kentucky, Shawn Stines allegedly fatally shot Judge Mullins eight times, Mail Online reported.

Shawn Stines, who had served as the sheriff of Letcher County, entered Judge Mullins' chambers on that fateful day. According to police reports, Stines spoke with court employees about needing a private conversation with Mullins before proceeding to shoot him.

Disturbingly, security footage shown during a court hearing captured Stines shooting Mullins at his desk, and again after the judge had fallen to the floor. This footage prompted strong emotional reactions among those present in the courtroom.

Immediately following the shooting, Stines surrendered to the authorities without resistance. He was arrested and later pleaded not guilty to the charges of murder.

Shocking Details Revealed in Court

In the days following the incident, more details emerged. Notably, Stines had dined with Mullins at a local sports bar just hours before the murder, indicating no apparent distress or conflict at the time.

During his arrest, Stines requested that officers "treat me fair." He also made a startling claim to the police, stating, "They're trying to kidnap my wife and kid," suggesting a possible motive driven by personal crisis or manipulation.

No weapon was found on Judge Mullins or in his chambers, adding a layer of complexity to the case about how and why this violent incident occurred.

Motive and Defense Strategy Unfolds

The defense hinted at a possible 'extreme emotional disturbance,' with attorney Jeremy Bartley suggesting it was a "crime of passion." This statement aligns with Stines' actions and claims during and after the incident.

Stines' legal team has announced plans for a 'parallel investigation' to explore deeper into the events leading up to the shooting, indicating that not all is as straightforward as it seems.

Investigators are still examining a rumored sex scandal involving the judge, but authorities have yet to confirm or provide details.

Community Reels as Trial Approaches

The murder has deeply shaken the local community. Judge Mullins, a respected figure in the judiciary for over 15 years, actively demonstrated his commitment to justice and community service.

After the tragedy, officials swore in Billy Jones as the new sheriff of Letcher County on October 1, marking a somber shift in local law enforcement leadership.

The forthcoming trial of Shawn Stines will likely draw national attention as more details emerge, clarifying the tragic events of September 19 and the relationship between the former sheriff and the slain judge.