Kentucky Sheriff Shawn M. Stines pleaded not guilty to a first-degree murder charge in connection with the fatal shooting of Judge Kevin Mullins in his chambers. The motive for the shooting remains unclear, but Stines had been deposed in a federal lawsuit just days prior, which accused one of his deputies of sexually abusing a woman in the judge’s chambers. Stines was named as a defendant in the lawsuit, alleging that he failed to adequately train and supervise his deputy. The lawsuit claimed that vulnerable women were targeted for “sexual extortion” in the courthouse, turning it into a brothel. Stines’ lawyer argued that he was immune from being sued due to his position as an elected official and law enforcement officer.
The shooting shocked the community, with the Commonwealth’s Attorney calling it an “unspeakable tragedy.” The judge’s mother expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support. The case will be handled by the Kentucky Attorney General and the commonwealth’s attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit due to conflicts of interest. Stines is currently being held in jail and is due back in court for a preliminary hearing. The Kentucky State Police are investigating a possible connection between the lawsuit and the shooting, with cameras being installed in the courthouse after the lawsuit was filed.
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