In a startling development that has shaken the community of Whitesburg, Kentucky, Sheriff Shawn Stines made his first court appearance on September 25. He faces a first-degree murder charge for the alleged killing of District Judge Kevin Mullins, a case that could potentially lead to the death penalty if he is convicted.

Sheriff Stines, 43, appeared via video link at the hearing, clad in an inmate uniform and showing no visible emotion. His public defender entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf, and the sheriff is set to return to court on October 1.

Mike Watts, the clerk for the Letcher County Circuit Court, recounted that Stines had a longstanding relationship with Mullins, serving as a bailiff in the judge’s courtroom prior to his election as sheriff. Just hours before the tragic shooting on September 19, Watts noticed the two men appearing to prepare for lunch together in Mullins’ office. It wasn’t until later, while on a different floor of the courthouse, that he learned about the active shooter situation and that Judge Mullins had been shot.

Reports indicate that Mullins was found with multiple gunshot wounds, and authorities are currently investigating whether Stines used his issued service weapon in the incident.

This shocking event follows Stines’ recent suspension related to a lawsuit involving allegations against a former officer, Ben Fields. Fields has been accused of coercing a woman into sexual acts in Mullins’ office in exchange for leniency, leading to accusations of “deliberate indifference” against Stines for failing to adequately train and supervise his staff.

Local officials, including Whitesburg Mayor Tiffany Craft, expressed their disbelief and shock regarding the situation. Craft, who has known both men for decades, shared her feelings with WTVQ, stating, “You never imagine something like this could happen in our town.” She described Mullins and Stines as two pillars of the community. Watts echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that he considered both men friends and colleagues, having interacted with them nearly every day at work.