The lawyer for Kentucky sheriff Shawn “Mickey” Stines announced his retirement after Gov. Andy Beshear threatened to remove him from office in response to the first-degree murder charge Stines faces for the shooting of Letcher County District Judge Kevin Mullins. Stines’ lawyer stated that the decision to retire was not a concession to the charges but was made to allow for a successor to protect the constituents while he addresses the legal process. Stines pleaded not guilty to the murder charge, and the Kentucky State Police, who is investigating the shooting, has not identified a possible motive for the killing. The shooting occurred after an argument, according to a spokesperson for the agency.
Prior to the shooting, Stines was deposed in connection with a federal lawsuit accusing a Letcher County deputy of sexually abusing a woman in Mullins’ office. The suit alleged that Stines failed to adequately train and supervise the deputy, leading to the incident. Stines claimed in a filing that he was protected from being sued in connection with the allegations due to his position as an elected official and law enforcement officer. The lawsuit and Stines’ involvement in the case may have contributed to the events leading up to the shooting of Judge Mullins.
Stines’ retirement comes after Gov. Beshear’s general counsel informed him that he had until Friday to resign or face removal proceedings under a state law that allows governors to fire peace officers for neglect. Stines’ legal team has maintained his innocence and continues to defend him against the murder charge. The decision to retire was made to allow for a smooth transition to a successor who can continue to serve and protect the constituents of Letcher County while Stines addresses the legal process ahead. Stines’ lawyer, Jeremy Bartley, indicated that the retirement was a strategic move in light of the pending legal proceedings.
The shooting of Judge Mullins in his chambers at the courthouse in Whitesburg has raised concerns about potential motives and the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Kentucky State Police’s investigation is ongoing, and it is unclear what led to the altercation and subsequent shooting between Stines and Mullins. The tragic event has shocked the community and brought attention to the need for accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies. As more details emerge from the investigation, the public awaits answers regarding the events leading up to the shooting and the individuals involved.
The case involving Stines and the allegations of sexual abuse by a deputy in Mullins’ office has added complexity to the situation and raised questions about the sheriff’s actions and responsibilities. The federal lawsuit highlighted concerns about accountability and supervision within law enforcement agencies, particularly when it comes to addressing allegations of misconduct. Stines’ involvement in the case and the subsequent shooting of Judge Mullins have underscored the importance of proper training, oversight, and accountability for all law enforcement officials. The retirement of Stines and the pending legal proceedings will hopefully bring clarity and closure to the community as they seek justice for the tragic loss of Judge Mullins.
