A Kentucky sheriff has been arrested for allegedly shooting a judge in his office on Thursday.
Lechter County Sheriff Mickey Stines turned himself in to police following the gunshot death of District Judge Kevin Mullins at the County Courthouse around 3 p.m. The mountain eagle reports.
The sheriff reportedly walked to the judge’s office and told court staff and others present that he wanted to speak to Mullins alone.
He and Mullins then entered the judge’s office, closed the door and people outside heard gunshots, The Mountain Eagle reported.
Stines then walked outside with his hands up and surrendered to the officers, who handcuffed him.
District Judge Kevin Mullins was shot dead in his chambers on Thursday
Lechter County Sheriff Mickey Stines reportedly turned himself in to police after the shooting
The coroner has since confirmed that one person was killed in a shooting at the courthouse, but has not identified the victim. according to WKYT.
However, Governor Andy Beshear later said: posted on X that he has been informed that a district judge has been murdered in his office.
“There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray that there is a path to a better future,” he wrote.
Mullins was appointed district judge in 2009 under former Governor Steve Beshear.
The sheriff reportedly told courthouse staff he wanted to speak to Mullins alone, and the two went to his office and closed the door before witnesses heard gunshots.
He previously served as an assistant district attorney for nine and a half years, where he primarily focused on drug-related crimes.
As a judge, Mullins was recognized for his efforts to treat people with drug addiction rather than incarcerate them. In 2010, he started a program that allowed prisoners with substance abuse disorders to enroll in inpatient treatment as a condition of pretrial release.
The motive for the shooting remains unclear. Kentucky State Police and Lechter County Coroner Perry Fowler were still investigating at the scene as of 5 p.m. local time.
The Kentucky Court of Justice says it is now “in contact with law enforcement agencies, including the Kentucky State Police, and offers our full support during this difficult time.”
“As long as the investigation is ongoing, we are prepared to provide assistance in every possible way,” the court said on social media.
“Our deepest condolences go out to all affected by this tragic event. Our thoughts and prayers are with the community at this difficult time.”
Attorney General Russell Coleman also announced on social media that his office will serve as special prosecutors in the case along with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit.