A rural town in Kentucky was shocked when news broke that a county sheriff had murdered a judge. The murder occurred in Whitesburg, Letcher County, and when police learned the sheriff was involved in the judge’s murder, he immediately turned himself in. Residents of the area are distressed by the news and want answers about the situation.
Who is the sheriff in Kentucky?
Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stein has been charged with first-degree murder, according to Kentucky State Police, after the 39-year-old deputy reportedly got into an altercation before shooting and killing the judge.
Who was the judge in Kentucky?
According to multiple reports, District Judge Kevin Mullins was shot multiple times by Sheriff Steins. Mullins was 54 years old at the time of his death.
What happened in Letcher County, Kentucky?
At a press conference, Kentucky State Trooper Matt Gayheart addressed the nation about the incident, acknowledging that the small, close-knit town has been “shaken” by the crime.
“It’s been a very hectic and busy day so I haven’t had a chance to speak to many people but the area is small to begin with and we’re all shaken up,” the officer said.
As for what happened between Judge Mullins and Sheriff Stines, Gayheart noted that the two got into an argument before Stines opened fire.
“We know there was an altercation between the two men,” Gayheart said, adding, “But we’re still seeking answers as to what actually happened prior to the shooting. … An autopsy will be performed in the coming days, and we will be following up on all leads and conducting a thorough investigation.”
According to Associated PressProsecutor Matt Butler also commented on the shooting, noting that townspeople “know each other here,” which made the crime so shocking.
“Anyone in Letcher County will tell you that Judge Mullins and I are sisters, married, and have children who are cousins but act like siblings,” Butler said in a statement, according to the Associated Press. “As such, I have already taken steps to resign myself and my entire position.”
Will the Kentucky sheriff be put on trial?
At the time of publication, a trial date had not been set.